AS doctors' receptionists we feel that we have to comment on deputy editor's Dave King's Passing Shot column (January 20).

We feel that this is an irresponsible headline to print, and that Mr King is sending out the wrong message to patients.

He felt unwell and phoned his surgery. It would appear that he was unhappy with the surgery's response.

Our role is and always has been to help our patients to see their own doctor. To do this we rely on the honesty and integrity of our patients on their own assessment of the urgency of their condition.

If Mr King was unhappy with the way his surgery is run, why did he not speak to the practice manager?

Regarding his nurse' friend making a comment that if he said he had chest pain, he would be guaranteed an appointment!

We must admit that we were very surprised that this friend, who is a member of a professional body, suggested that he did this.

Did he not think that in obtaining an appointment in this manner that you may well have prevented a real emergency from being seen?

As receptionists, we receive a lot of verbal abuse. We try to remain calm, considerate and helpful to patients' throughout. This shows at Christmas, in particular, when the reception staff receive many Christmas cards, presents and good wishes from so many patients that are very grateful to us for our help throughout the year.

J WAREHAM, reception supervisor, Lordshill Health Centre, Southampton.