Patient-naming proves a hit at Langport Surgery.
Increasing numbers of local gossips are reportedly visiting Langport surgery waiting room just to see whose names appear on the massive screens around the walls.Years ago, when Lord and Lady Nightingale ran the practice, a series of light bulbs and buzzers went off telling people which doctor was ready and the person seeing that GP would hang a number on a hook next to the light bulb.
(In 1983, nurse Vera Botting's light bulb actually exploded. The blast was so loud it brought a Portcullis House resident back to life who'd just keeled over infront of Doctor Gibson) But those days are long past. Now, anybody hoping for a discrete visit to see their GP, perhaps without telling their loved-ones, has their plans thwarted when the screens say
(In 1983, nurse Vera Botting's light bulb actually exploded. The blast was so loud it brought a Portcullis House resident back to life who'd just keeled over infront of Doctor Gibson) But those days are long past. Now, anybody hoping for a discrete visit to see their GP, perhaps without telling their loved-ones, has their plans thwarted when the screens say
"NELLIE SWINTERTON - ROOM 3 - DOCTOR SPEKE'
(We understand patients can ask for their names not to be shown, but that option is poorly publicised and barely anyone seems aware it even exists - what was wrong with the old number system?)
The practice manager, pictured above, is believed to be delighted the system is popular with Langport gossips. There are even unconfirmed rumours things will soon be even better for them: the patients conditions could be listed too. For example:
"EDNA MANGLE - ROOM 5 - DOCTOR STUART - HAEMORRHOIDS"
The practice manager has rejected the idea though saying she could never be that generous.
The practice manager has rejected the idea though saying she could never be that generous.
Dispensary staff at Langport surgery, on duty yesterday.
