A lot of people in the UK have accepted that it’s hard to see a doctor for a “minor” illness or injury and some even act as if they are morally superior to those who do try to be seen for “minor” issues. I’m not talking about a common cold but a suspected chest infection, a knee injury or fatigue that has lasted for months. In a country with a functional healthcare system, you should be able to see a doctor about these concerns. You shouldn’t have to be on the verge of death to be seen. The social contract between citizens and the state is completely broken when taxpayers, their children and retired people who paid taxes their whole working lives can’t access the service that they fund. It’s an extra kick in the teeth to be lectured that we’re all ungrateful whenever we complain that the “free” service doesn’t meet our expectations.