GP refused Letter

I went to my doctors today to request a letter to state I was mentally fit for surgery. MYA asked for one because I looked into medway talking therapies 2 years ago but decided not to go ahead with it. My doctor outright refused and said they weren’t able to assess my mental health… anyone else had theis problem?? What do I do now?! I’m so upset that my surgery may be cancelled due to a phone call I made years ago!

This is a little concerning, I have suffered depression and anxiety historically. Does that mean I can’t have the op without a consent letter from my g.p.? I have my first consultation tomorrow. I don’t want to be wasting everyone’s time if I’m going to be medically rejected from the outset :/ xx

Go to another surgeon. Don’t remember my surgeon getting letters from my doctor. That’s surely against gdpr!

Is there a mod that’s able to provide a bit more clarity on the subject?

Any reason why your doctor refused? I had to get a letter for my surgery as I have been on medication for anxiety/depression for a few years so again mya wanted to check I was mentally stable which is fair enough. Your gp shouldn’t refuse you a letter, your only asking them to clarify what you’ve already stated xx

I’ve had counseling etc in the past and came off meds last year. I had a review with my gp so they could give mya the go ahead and it’s all fine now! Try speaking to your gp and explaining the situation, it’s ridiculous they won’t just sort it for you.. xx

I had a little anxiety last year when I was pregnant wasn’t on any medication and after sending MYA by medical history they asked for a GP letter so you may find that they will require a letter. GP’s normally charge for the letter but I have my pre-op tomorrow and taking the letter then I emailed a copy of the letter last week. Think they just want it on there records just to ensure you are fit for surgery. X

Thank you everyone. I’ve booked another appointment with a different doctor at my surgery and going to be a little pushier I think. If I’m paying for it they should do it! Hopefully I have better luck because if not stumped x

To be fair to your GP, he isn’t a mental health specialist so he isn’t wrong in saying he can’t say your mentally fit, this is the reason why they refer people to psychiatrists etc for diagnosis.

They can do an assessment for depression/anxiety etc but I think it’s unfair for a GP to be asked to ‘sign off’ someone’s mental health. It’s a very vulnerable and precarious position for them to be in.

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