![Sample our Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing & Allied Health journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5944/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Medicine-Dentistry-Nursing-Allied-Health.jpg"})
Abstract
The management of substance misusing patients in primary care has been repeatedly advocated. The receptionist is an integral part of the primary healthcare team, however, the role of the receptionist with substance misusing patients has not previously been examined. Questionnaires were given to 72 receptionists in general practices in southeast London, of which 57 (76%) responded. Almost half had experienced difficulties with substance misusing patients and thought they were the most difficult sort of patients. About a quarter of the receptionists thought that these patients should not be treated in general practice and just over half wanted some form of training or support. If substance misusing patients are to be treated in general practice, further consideration needs to be given to receptionists, who may benefit from training, support and a fuller appreciation of their contribution in the management of patients.