It is surprising how many times this question is asked, and not answered correctly, especially here in the UK. So, I have listed the appointment types and how to request them either online or via phone.
If your doctors surgery uses the electronic system for appointments and prescriptions then this is easier to use, but has less appointment times.- however, this does give you the advantage of seeing when your own doctor is free again and how long of an appointment you need to fit in their schedules.
Online Booking Appointment Type:
Standard Appointment = a 10 minute consultation
Double Appointment = a 20 minute consultation (Note: This may require you to make 2 consecutive running appointments). If this is the case make sure you have no gaps between appointments when booking.
Most surgeries depending on your doctors instructions will allow up to 30 minute consultations
Phoning for an Appointment:
Standard Appointment = a 10 minute consultation
Extended Appointment = a 15 - 20 minute consultations
Double Appointment = a 20 minute consultation
Remember do not overbook, most matters can be dealt within 5-10 minutes – you could be wasting your Doctors time, as well as other people behind you.
Repeat Prescriptions:
If you need a repeat prescription, try and not make an appointment, unless it is absolutely necessary. Most surgeries will take repeat prescriptions on line, once one has been issued, do not order more than is necessary.
Arranging an appointment with your own doctor:
Most people these days prefer to see their own doctor, compared to a stand-in or locum – besides your own will or should know your whole medical history, it is more practical to see your own doctor if you need to change a drug, or need additional drugs for a new problem.
WARNING:
Remember, everyone is different, therefore NEVER give your medication dedicated to you to someone else, whom may have a serious reaction. Many people do this without realizing the effects that could happen.