As doctors, we are seen as distant and aloof and it is getting more difficult to get an appointment to be seen in the NHS.

…but it doesn’t have to be this way in the private sector.

Don’t just mirror your NHS practice in your private practice, aim to make it better if you can.

There is no reason that you can’t be available to answer questions, so let your secretary know that you will get back to patients, even if that is via your secretary through an email.  Every now and then, email patients back yourself, it will be appreciated.