When I worked, my GP’s norm was at least an hour late. I used to call and ask how late he was running.
The reception were always helpful, but treated his tardy habits as funny….
I once made an appointment and the reception staff said that it was his first appointment after lunch so he wont have any hold ups. When I got to the practice, he was returning from lunch – all good. No! 45 minutes later I got in. THEN he starts reviewing my file….
I am now retired, and I would call ahead to ask how late he is running, but THAT now takes over an hour just to get to speak to anyone!
I would walk out after (say) 2 hours, but I know they would bill me anyway. On that, minimum consultation is $90. And they very rarely bulk bill. My GP does to telecalls, but charges the same fees as in-person visits! And the starting time of the telecall IS only an estimate…
Once recently, my GP called me to ask why had visited another GP (in the same practice. It was a simple script renewal and my own GP had a 3 week wait.). After the call, I checked via Medicare and yes, he had claimed that as a consultation! HE called ME.
