3/5: Seeing your GP's in the Surgery:

How can I make best use of our consultation time?

This time is short, so be well prepared. Remember that you are the expert on your child and your views are essential.

QUICK TIPS FOR A SATISFACTORY VISIT

• Write all your questions down and bring them with you
• Take notes of any instructions, names of medicines you're given and staff names or ask for clearer explanations when you don't understand
• If you think you'll have language difficulties, ask in advance for an interpreter
• Ask for written information on the problem. There may be some you can take away with you, or details of local self-help groups
• Ask for another meeting if you have more questions to ask o take a friend or partner with you if you need support
• Take your child's health record booklet with you, and ask for it to be filled in

Can I refuse recommended treatment for my child if I think it's unnecessary?

Yes, there are often different ways of treating a medical condition and your GP should explain the choices to you.

When your GP recommends treatment or prescribes medicine, you can ask for more information and more time to think about it. This is a right under the Patient's Charter.

Don't make any decisions until you've done this, and have discussed it with your child and family and friends. Even small children have views about treatment and you should always ask them what they think. It's both you and your child's right to decide about treatment and medicines.

USEFUL QUESTIONS TO ASK

• What is each drug (or treatment) for?
• How is it given?
• How long should the medicine be taken (or will the treatment last)?
• What are the side effects and what signs should you look out for?
• When is your child likely to start feeling better?
• What alternatives are available?

Can I insist my child is referred to a specialist?

You must have a letter of referral from a GP to see a specialist, and it's up to your GP to decide if this is necessary. If your GP won't provide one, you can ask for a second opinion, or if you decide to see a specialist privately you may find your GP is more willing to write you a letter.

Can I choose which specialist I want my child to see?

Your GP will normally refer your child to the nearest hospital that specialises in her condition. You can ask him to refer you to another hospital (NHS or private), but again it's up to your GP to decide if this is necessary. If If you're not happy with this decision, you can ask the GP to refer you to another hospital, or to another doctor for a second opinion. This is your right under the Patient's Charter.

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