Leaving Them To It

Collecting a repeat prescription at the doctor's surgery was a lesson in the effects of recession. As people have less disposable income they become more than ever determined to consume 'free' state provision of things like health services. A mob of aggressive mothers accompanied by suitably wailing infants surrounded the nurse. Taking a seat in the empty waiting room it was soon clear why there was near fisticuffs going on in the corridor. Sit in the waiting room and wait for ever.

'Might I make an enquiry on whether there is an envelope waiting for collection? '

Request refused by phalanx of health consuming, well, consumers.

Hat raised to harried nurse over seething peasantry. Two hours later the phone rings, heartfelt apologies - not at all, merely a repeat prescription, can be put in the post, happened to be passing and thought to collect it.

But even a year ago there was courtesy, recognition, reasonable acquiescence to the friendly and efficient conduct of the doctor's business. Rationing, even by time availability is reducing patients to competitors. And to the wholesale abandonment of the state health service by those whose presence made it formerly truly universal.

Update

Now the doctor has called (twice) although it isn't her fault, consulting times have been cut, ancillary staff have been cut, heads have rolled (no, actually, she didn't say the last). Arrangements have been made with the pharmacy for supplies to be collected without further prescription; yes, indeed. The pharmacist was the next port of call and handed over without a murmur. Memo: avoid falling down the stairs and doing your knee in (not to mention collar bone and shoulder, though those are better now). Medical services can no longer cope with civilised demand.