I HAVE used the NHS regularly this year and, generally speaking, the NHS is marvellous and works well. The support staff are usually good and diligent.

My problems are with the administrative staff – who have not a clue how to administer – and the interference of successive governments in meddling with the health service.

The JR Hospital and A&E waiting times must surely be associated, in part, with the changes in the way GP practices operate.

I have been with the Malthouse Surgery in Abingdon for 50 years.

I can remember the days when my family could call upon the practice for all sorts of ailments and enjoy immediate attention from a nurse or a doctor and, in emergencies, even have a doctor visit during the night. Sadly no longer.

Now if you have to call the Malthouse by phone it is on a premium-rated number – and they usually keep you waiting on the phone for some time.

Is this to maximise revenue? Otherwise, you can make appointments on the Internet – but usually having to allow at least a week-and-a-half before they can fit you in!

So, the doctors and their surgeries make more revenue than ever before – at the expense of A&E. Yours in great frustration.

GRAHAM ROSE
Park Lane
Appleton