Dr Mataroria Lyndon addresses your concerns.
I have recently lost trust in my GP. What should someone do after having negative or discriminatory experiences with their doctor?
I’m really sorry to hear you’ve had this experience. Feeling dismissed or not taken seriously can be deeply upsetting, and it’s important that you feel safe and respected in your care.
In Aotearoa, you have rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights, including the right to be treated with respect and free from discrimination.
Here are some steps you can take:
- Seek a second opinion: You can book with a different GP at the same clinic, or enrol with a new practice altogether. It’s okay to change providers if you’re not feeling heard.
- Prepare for appointments: Writing down your symptoms, how long they’ve been occurring, and how they affect your daily life can help you communicate clearly.
- Access your health records: You have the right to see what’s been documented about your health, which can help with continuity if you move practices.
- Make a complaint if needed: If you feel you’ve been discriminated against or unfairly treated, you can raise this directly with the clinic or contact the Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC). Free advocacy support is also available through the Health and Disability Advocacy Service.
You might also consider seeing a clinician or health service that aligns more closely with your values. Most importantly, please don’t let this experience stop you from getting the care you need. You deserve to feel heard, respected, and supported in your healthcare journey.
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