Patient-centred care is key for a wary wharfie
Past experiences make this man uncomfortable in the conventional medical system, highlighting the importance of an individualised approach
Jack, 64, is a former wharfie. Tattoos and nicotine stains hint at a colourful past.
He loves fishing and polishing his car. Drug users annoy him even though he doesn’t know anyone who isn’t drug dependent — aside from his trusted GP.
A regular at the practice for decades, he attends for scripts for methadone and diazepam and otherwise keeps a low profile.
His past history includes chronic back pain, COPD, BVU (benzodiazepine voluntary undertaking), GORD and Barrett’s oesophagus.1
