Dear Miriam: NHS must not fail the elderly; HEALTH.

Byline: DR. MIRIAM STOPPARD

I was dismayed to hear that half the doctors specialising in care for older people believe the NHS is "institutionally ageist".

Charity Help the Aged polled 200 members of the British Geriatrics Society and found two thirds thought older people are less likely to have their symptoms fully investigated.

More than 70 per cent said the elderly are less likely to be referred for essential treatments, and over half the doctors themselves are worried about how the service will treat them in old age.

What an indictment. This shows a worrying lack of respect for our ageing population. Perhaps many in the medical profession feel that referring older people for expensive treatments is a waste of money.

Maybe older people are less inclined to assert themselves.

Care and respect

But the NHS should be investing in older people. More than 20million people in the UK are aged over 50 and the total is rising as we all live longer.

Older people's wealth of experience means they can still make a valuable contribution to society. And today's over-60s are the only group not suffering from the obesity epidemic - so they'll cost the NHS much less than younger generations.

After a lifetime of hard work and national insurance contributions, the old deserve the same care and respect as the young.

Age discrimination legislation will be broadened in the forthcoming Equality Bill but it may take more than a year before it's approved. In the meantime, here's how to make your doctor listen.

Take a younger person with you

This shows that someone else is taking a keen interest in your health and welfare and will push for the best treatment if need be. The doctor will be less inclined to fob you off.

Do some research

Surf the net for info on your condition and possible treatments but choose reliable websites. Good choices include www.nhs.uk;www.netdoctor.co.uk; www.healthtalkonline.org and besthealth.bmj.com. Print off pages to take to your doctor. Digital Unite gives computer tuition specifically for older people and will visit you at home if you like. Call 0870 241 5091.

Be prepared

Write a list of questions before your doctor's appointment. For example, What are my treatment options? What are the pros and cons of each? How quickly can I see a specialist? Is there any way to speed up the process? Do you have leaflets about my condition or could you suggest an organisation to give me information? Is there any equipment to make my life easier?

Don't be fobbed off

If your doctor blames your age for unexplained symptoms, you're being fobbed off. Insist on an investigation - the problem could be treatable.

Try another doctor

If you're not happy with your doctor's attitude, make an appointment with another doctor in the same practice. If you want to move to another practice, you don't have to give a reason. Just register elsewhere and your medical records will be sent on automatically.

Complain officially

Put any concerns about treatment in writing, take them to your appointment and ask your doctor to put them in your file, keeping a copy. If your GP isn't taking your concerns seriously, complain to the surgery's practice manager. If you're not satisfied, the Patients Association can guide you through the NHS complaints processes. Call 0845 6084455 or visit www.patients-association.org.uk.

Additional research: MADELEINE BAILEY