Guardian

Tuesday May 16, 2000

I have cancer and have seen more than 16 doctors in the last three years. Only one was "uncaring and arrogant" (Uncaring doctors, May 13). My GPs, main specialist and all the others have discussed options, explained procedures fully, talked things through person to person and seemed to show an interest in me. They are/were great!

We need a system which enables patients to report someone with an arrogant or uncaring attitude without feeling that treatment might be affected. I found it tricky to do anything about the arrogant doctor. I just asked my GP to try to arrange for me to see someone else. Patient satisfaction should be measured, anonymously.
Janet Nightingale
Rowley Regis, West Midlands
janet.nightingale@which.net

• Many medical schools are questioning a selection procedure based primarily on academic results. Doctors need empathy as well as straight As. Students are now taught communication skills. Postgraduate training in general practice emphasises patient-centred consultation. To communicate properly doctors and nurses need time with people. Time is a resource which has been eroded by "efficiency" and "cost savings".

I have never come across a doctor or nurse who wanted to be bad but I have met many who, through exhaustion, frustration and depression, have had the flame that brought them into medicine snuffed out.
Martin McShane
Chair, North east Derbyshire PCG
Martin.McShane@tesco.net