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What Seems To Be The Problem?
In this powerful and deeply personal memoir, award-winning GP Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews introduces us to the patients who have shaped her radical approach to medicine.
Over the course of a decade spent on the frontline of the NHS, Dr Laura witnessed lives being adversely affected by one-size-fits-all treatments. Determined to create change, she began to envisage a new way to care that prioritised the lived experience of her patients.
Created with the help of doctors, artists and complementary health practitioners, Dr Laura’s pioneering holistic approach was revelatory. From those whose lives were changed by ‘ineffective’ drugs, to those for whom alternative therapies, kindness and trust proved transformative, her patients began to flourish.
What Seems To Be The Problem? is a heartfelt story of hope, and an urgent call for change in our NHS at a time when it is most in need.
Over the course of a decade spent on the frontline of the NHS, Dr Laura witnessed lives being adversely affected by one-size-fits-all treatments. Determined to create change, she began to envisage a new way to care that prioritised the lived experience of her patients.
Created with the help of doctors, artists and complementary health practitioners, Dr Laura’s pioneering holistic approach was revelatory. From those whose lives were changed by ‘ineffective’ drugs, to those for whom alternative therapies, kindness and trust proved transformative, her patients began to flourish.
What Seems To Be The Problem? is a heartfelt story of hope, and an urgent call for change in our NHS at a time when it is most in need.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published July 7, 2022
19 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 5, 2022
Described via tag line as ‘The heartfelt new medical memoir for 2022 telling the true story of an NHS doctor’s pioneering, holistic approach to care’
Right, I thought, yet another documentation of someone doing their job and wanting us all to read it etc, still, it drew me to it and was keen to see if this Dr was indeed different
And she is, and her way of working is and her non belief in every missive from the NHS on patient care is refreshing as is the Health Centre she has help build in Brighton
The book goes back and forth from her training days to post Lockdown and includes how and why she challenges the ‘status quo’ and along the way we find her looking into various NHS organisations that for example monitor prescriptions and their costs ( and other groups similar ) and how she faced being struck off, simply because she put patients first and guidelines last and refused to compromise her ethics
There are fascinating and often very moving accounts of patients and their ails and situations and how she doesn’t just go the extra mile but a whole marathon to give someone just a bit more comfort, hope or dignity, she is so honest and knows her downfalls and mistakes and lists these with her achievements
Really glad read these memoirs, and re taught me the lesson ‘never judge a book by it’s cover’ ( or blurb )
10/10
5 Stars
Right, I thought, yet another documentation of someone doing their job and wanting us all to read it etc, still, it drew me to it and was keen to see if this Dr was indeed different
And she is, and her way of working is and her non belief in every missive from the NHS on patient care is refreshing as is the Health Centre she has help build in Brighton
The book goes back and forth from her training days to post Lockdown and includes how and why she challenges the ‘status quo’ and along the way we find her looking into various NHS organisations that for example monitor prescriptions and their costs ( and other groups similar ) and how she faced being struck off, simply because she put patients first and guidelines last and refused to compromise her ethics
There are fascinating and often very moving accounts of patients and their ails and situations and how she doesn’t just go the extra mile but a whole marathon to give someone just a bit more comfort, hope or dignity, she is so honest and knows her downfalls and mistakes and lists these with her achievements
Really glad read these memoirs, and re taught me the lesson ‘never judge a book by it’s cover’ ( or blurb )
10/10
5 Stars
July 27, 2023
I have to say I was quite deeply affected by this book. In What Seems To Be The Problem Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews sets out her life's work so far. From her misery at not being able to continue to specialise in Paediatrics she starts life as a GP. Her journey leads her to setting up the Brighton Health and Wellbeing Centre where she and the rest of the staff deal with a clientele that includes some of the most challenging complex needs patients in the country.
Dr Marshall-Andrews was (and is determined) to do things differently, to provide a more holistic approach to helping patients which includes having an on-site acupuncturist, staff who liaise with the community, a singing group amongst other pioneering treatments.
I found this book utterly inspirational. I know Dr Marshall-Andrews and the staff are not alone in their desire to bring about the best outcome for people who are suffering from both physical and mental ill health but I'd like to buy this book for all the doubters in the medical profession -- those who still believe that pills are the only answer.
This is not a book about miracle cures but it is about small miracles nonetheless - patients who know nothing but confrontation are calmed, patients whose longstanding drug misuse is believed entrenched behaviour are given a different way out of their misery, patients whose last few months are made joyful simply by someone listening to what they want.
I've never been one for contacting authors but I would love to shake this woman's hand. I've been lucky enough to meet a few inspirational carers within the NHS myself and everyone (bar one nurse) made my husband's terminal diagnosis much easier to bear. Laura Marshall-Andrews is not alone in her endeavours to change the system. She just needs more sympathetic ears further up the line. I'm a fan.
Very highly recommended. This book is extremely emotive. I cried a lot but I also got angry and upset on behalf of the patients who'd been sidelined and also on behalf of Dr Marshall-Andrews herself who appears to be fighting an uphill struggle at times against those who want no change. However I also laughed a lot at the joy tiny changes brought about.
I listened to the audio version of this which was beautifully read by Dr Marshall-Andrews.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Harper Collins audio for the advance review copy.
Dr Marshall-Andrews was (and is determined) to do things differently, to provide a more holistic approach to helping patients which includes having an on-site acupuncturist, staff who liaise with the community, a singing group amongst other pioneering treatments.
I found this book utterly inspirational. I know Dr Marshall-Andrews and the staff are not alone in their desire to bring about the best outcome for people who are suffering from both physical and mental ill health but I'd like to buy this book for all the doubters in the medical profession -- those who still believe that pills are the only answer.
This is not a book about miracle cures but it is about small miracles nonetheless - patients who know nothing but confrontation are calmed, patients whose longstanding drug misuse is believed entrenched behaviour are given a different way out of their misery, patients whose last few months are made joyful simply by someone listening to what they want.
I've never been one for contacting authors but I would love to shake this woman's hand. I've been lucky enough to meet a few inspirational carers within the NHS myself and everyone (bar one nurse) made my husband's terminal diagnosis much easier to bear. Laura Marshall-Andrews is not alone in her endeavours to change the system. She just needs more sympathetic ears further up the line. I'm a fan.
Very highly recommended. This book is extremely emotive. I cried a lot but I also got angry and upset on behalf of the patients who'd been sidelined and also on behalf of Dr Marshall-Andrews herself who appears to be fighting an uphill struggle at times against those who want no change. However I also laughed a lot at the joy tiny changes brought about.
I listened to the audio version of this which was beautifully read by Dr Marshall-Andrews.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Harper Collins audio for the advance review copy.
February 25, 2023
Time taken to read - 1 day
Pages - 272
Publisher - HQ Stories
Source - Bought (Waterstones)
Blurb from Goodreads
In this powerful and deeply personal memoir, award-winning GP Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews introduces us to the patients who have shaped her radical approach to medicine.
Over the course of a decade spent on the frontline of the NHS, Dr Laura witnessed lives being adversely affected by one-size-fits-all treatments. Determined to create change, she began to envisage a new way to care that prioritised the lived experience of her patients.
Created with the help of doctors, artists and complementary health practitioners, Dr Laura’s pioneering holistic approach was revelatory. From those whose lives were changed by ‘ineffective’ drugs, to those for whom alternative therapies, kindness and trust proved transformative, her patients began to flourish.
What Seems To Be The Problem? is a heartfelt story of hope, and an urgent call for change in our NHS at a time when it is most in need.
My Review
I do like these true stories and reading about other peoples work stories, NHS ones I have been reading/buying as a go. This one is a wee bit different, Doctor Laura Marshall-Andrews gives us an insight into her journey as a doctor.
As I said I have read lots of NHS stories from different professionals and enjoy reading the patients and doctors experiences. This one is different as we get to see the normal doctor approach but Marshall-Andrews takes a more holistic approach and once she gets her own gp surgery we see what it is like to work with other professionals in a holistic manner and how it can affect and impact the patients.
I fist punched the air when she fought for a patient to stay on X drug because it had a huge positive impact on her life yet the higher ups wanted her switched to a drug that was not effective because of the cost. They argued about no evidence yet here is this human being gone from a miserable existence to being happier, healthier and managing to contribute to society. The doc also examines this, the cost of her health issues if she went on the ineffective drug, hospital admission costs, appointments, benefits etc huge costs which would be more than the medication. However the people who overview medication prescribing, costs to the surgery/budget wanted this lady on the cheaper, not effective or working for her because studies show, 1 person experience doesn't not provide conclusive evidence. I am so so glad she put the foot down but it shouldn't have to be like this. When it comes to patient care cost should not be a factor, I shudder at the healthcare systems in other countries but some of this stuff in this book also highlights it isn't just other countries.
It is a shorter book than some of those available and I feel this one offered a bit more of a different perspective on treatments, their practice being evaluated (I hadn't read any accounts of that from the stories I have read so far) and as always the patients - it is always interesting to hear patient stories, they are are so very different! 4/5 for me this time, I would read more by this doc.
Pages - 272
Publisher - HQ Stories
Source - Bought (Waterstones)
Blurb from Goodreads
In this powerful and deeply personal memoir, award-winning GP Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews introduces us to the patients who have shaped her radical approach to medicine.
Over the course of a decade spent on the frontline of the NHS, Dr Laura witnessed lives being adversely affected by one-size-fits-all treatments. Determined to create change, she began to envisage a new way to care that prioritised the lived experience of her patients.
Created with the help of doctors, artists and complementary health practitioners, Dr Laura’s pioneering holistic approach was revelatory. From those whose lives were changed by ‘ineffective’ drugs, to those for whom alternative therapies, kindness and trust proved transformative, her patients began to flourish.
What Seems To Be The Problem? is a heartfelt story of hope, and an urgent call for change in our NHS at a time when it is most in need.
My Review
I do like these true stories and reading about other peoples work stories, NHS ones I have been reading/buying as a go. This one is a wee bit different, Doctor Laura Marshall-Andrews gives us an insight into her journey as a doctor.
As I said I have read lots of NHS stories from different professionals and enjoy reading the patients and doctors experiences. This one is different as we get to see the normal doctor approach but Marshall-Andrews takes a more holistic approach and once she gets her own gp surgery we see what it is like to work with other professionals in a holistic manner and how it can affect and impact the patients.
I fist punched the air when she fought for a patient to stay on X drug because it had a huge positive impact on her life yet the higher ups wanted her switched to a drug that was not effective because of the cost. They argued about no evidence yet here is this human being gone from a miserable existence to being happier, healthier and managing to contribute to society. The doc also examines this, the cost of her health issues if she went on the ineffective drug, hospital admission costs, appointments, benefits etc huge costs which would be more than the medication. However the people who overview medication prescribing, costs to the surgery/budget wanted this lady on the cheaper, not effective or working for her because studies show, 1 person experience doesn't not provide conclusive evidence. I am so so glad she put the foot down but it shouldn't have to be like this. When it comes to patient care cost should not be a factor, I shudder at the healthcare systems in other countries but some of this stuff in this book also highlights it isn't just other countries.
It is a shorter book than some of those available and I feel this one offered a bit more of a different perspective on treatments, their practice being evaluated (I hadn't read any accounts of that from the stories I have read so far) and as always the patients - it is always interesting to hear patient stories, they are are so very different! 4/5 for me this time, I would read more by this doc.
July 4, 2025
First of all, I am not a big fan of holistic medicine in the way it is now so widely promoted and supported, so my opinion of a book whose main purpose is to replace mainstream medicine with holistic medicine may be biased and contradictory.
In my personal opinion, medicine in cases of zero and primary prevention, as well as family medicine, requires empathy and psychological support for patients and understanding of their social needs, rather than requiring advanced and highly specialized knowledge, which, according to my own work experience, has led to the emergence of psychosomatic complications. However, I strongly and deeply believe that simplistic and holistic approaches to referrals in the field of family medicine are a fatal mistake in the process of diagnsis and treating chronic illnesses that have been latent and untreated for years.
One of the cognitive errors in patients with chronic psychosomatic complaints such as fatigue, boredom, and other cases is the reduction of the diagnosis and treatment process to various types of adjuvant treatments and placebo therapy.
As we know, the main basis of chronic diseases is the slow growth and gradual course of the disease, such that the person adapts well to its complications and problems and gets used to it. Therefore, it is natural to be pulled to two sides of the spectrum at once with a very mild painkiller or a prescribed multivitamin and a slight improvement in symptoms; either very satisfied with the symptomatic treatment process or completely disappointed due to the lack of an appropriate response and not following up on the underlying disease. Ultimately, the ultimate loss is suffered by both the individual and the treatment system due to the cost of the disease. so in breif words I do not agree with the holistic medicine concept even for stable cases :)
In my personal opinion, medicine in cases of zero and primary prevention, as well as family medicine, requires empathy and psychological support for patients and understanding of their social needs, rather than requiring advanced and highly specialized knowledge, which, according to my own work experience, has led to the emergence of psychosomatic complications. However, I strongly and deeply believe that simplistic and holistic approaches to referrals in the field of family medicine are a fatal mistake in the process of diagnsis and treating chronic illnesses that have been latent and untreated for years.
One of the cognitive errors in patients with chronic psychosomatic complaints such as fatigue, boredom, and other cases is the reduction of the diagnosis and treatment process to various types of adjuvant treatments and placebo therapy.
As we know, the main basis of chronic diseases is the slow growth and gradual course of the disease, such that the person adapts well to its complications and problems and gets used to it. Therefore, it is natural to be pulled to two sides of the spectrum at once with a very mild painkiller or a prescribed multivitamin and a slight improvement in symptoms; either very satisfied with the symptomatic treatment process or completely disappointed due to the lack of an appropriate response and not following up on the underlying disease. Ultimately, the ultimate loss is suffered by both the individual and the treatment system due to the cost of the disease. so in breif words I do not agree with the holistic medicine concept even for stable cases :)
August 9, 2023
This book explains the author’s holistic approach to medicine and its impact on patients.
An honourable intent, which I went along with until she mentioned homeopathy in a ‘why not try it and if it works for the patient, who are we to judge?’ sort of way. I strongly disagree with most alternative medicines, and homeopathy in particular really does make my blood boil. Apologies to our Royal Family for dissing their views.
For some people, the singing and the art would make a difference, but I believe that this is mostly because these give a sense of community and makes them feel part of life again, perhaps even listened to too. Nothing wrong in that but it does make me feel that the social side of ill health, whether as the impact of disease or the cause of it, needs to be addressed outside the NHS generally.
That aside, I would have liked more patient stories. And the Covid bit at the end feels historic now, though obviously it was relevant at the time the book was written.
An honourable intent, which I went along with until she mentioned homeopathy in a ‘why not try it and if it works for the patient, who are we to judge?’ sort of way. I strongly disagree with most alternative medicines, and homeopathy in particular really does make my blood boil. Apologies to our Royal Family for dissing their views.
For some people, the singing and the art would make a difference, but I believe that this is mostly because these give a sense of community and makes them feel part of life again, perhaps even listened to too. Nothing wrong in that but it does make me feel that the social side of ill health, whether as the impact of disease or the cause of it, needs to be addressed outside the NHS generally.
That aside, I would have liked more patient stories. And the Covid bit at the end feels historic now, though obviously it was relevant at the time the book was written.
September 9, 2024
I am not a huge fan of memoire books, however I enjoyed this one. I enjoyed hearing about the possibility of different medicine practices and possibilities.
However, I feel like the book was not structured very well, I felt like it was just a series of anecdotes that at times would lead into something but at other times felt like they were just parts to fill up a word count. I know that this is not the case but at times this is how it read to me.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to someone if they enjoyed this type of book.
Thank you to Laura Marshall-Andrews
However, I feel like the book was not structured very well, I felt like it was just a series of anecdotes that at times would lead into something but at other times felt like they were just parts to fill up a word count. I know that this is not the case but at times this is how it read to me.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to someone if they enjoyed this type of book.
Thank you to Laura Marshall-Andrews
April 10, 2024
i love me a good gp memoir, and this was unlike any other i've read- laura cares so much for each and every one of her patients and this shows so much through her writing! there were several parts that just made me🥺🥺🥺🥺 and i loved her discussion of why western medicine & more experimental medicines can function well together without just sticking to one
December 18, 2023
Such an interesting memoir, especially hearing how Dr Marshall-Andrews started out in integrated medicine.
March 13, 2024
4.5/5 stars
This is a medical memoir. The author of this book is so inspirational as she has tried to change things and provided holistic care. This book is so emotional.
This is a medical memoir. The author of this book is so inspirational as she has tried to change things and provided holistic care. This book is so emotional.
September 11, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ REALLY, REALLY GOOD, BUT NOT THE BEST THING I'VE EVER READ -- Generally I hand out this rating to books that I thoroughly enjoy/find extremely interesting/have a lot of fun reading. I save 5 star ratings for only the best of the best, so a 4 star rating is usually indicative of a high quality book. A book could be knocked down to 4 stars because there were some parts that I wasn't entirely fond of, some parts that could be improved upon, or maybe I just didn't like the ending. Still, I would likely recommend this book to most people, with the proviso that I enjoyed it but it wasn't the best ever.
----------
My ranking criteria (✅= Yes, ❌= No, ➖= Kind of/a little bit):
*Bonus points if I can't put the book down, it makes me feel strong emotion, or genuinely surprises me in some way.
*Penalty points for editing errors (spelling, grammar, punctuation, etc.), for children who act too mature or too young for their age (this is a bugbear of mine), or if there is something in the book that just really pisses me off for any reason.
1. I was sucked into the story from the beginning ✅
2. The story had a proper beginning, middle, and end ✅
3. The writing evoked a feeling of suspense ➖
4. I was engaged the whole way through/didn't get bored ✅
5. The characters were interesting ✅
6. There was some form of character development ➖
7. The book wasn't predictable in terms of relying on tired tropes, clichés, themes, stereotypes, etc. ✅
8. I cared about the outcome of the story ✅
9. I didn't work out the ending/the ending surprised me ➖
10. The ending was satisfying ➖
🌟 Bonus points: None.
☠️ Penalty points: None.
🏅 OVERALL RANKING: 8/10 (4/5 stars)
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Thoughts, Conclusion, and Recommendation:
What Seems To Be The Problem is a memoir written by Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews. The book dives into Laura's journey to discovering the power of alternative types of health care, and then creating a medical practice that could provide those services to her patients. Through telling the stories of individual patients, Laura introduces the utilisation of alternative therapies (e.g. acupuncture, psychiatric homeopathy, art therapy, etc.), and shows the ways in which they can help people in a myriad of ways.
I picked this book up because I saw it was compared favourably to This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay. While I did enjoy What Seems To Be The Problem, it wasn't really similar to Adam Kay's book; the narratives went in different directions, and it wasn't funny. Still, Laura's writing was excellent, and could be very evocative at times. She did a great job painting a picture of what it was like to be a GP paving a new path within the restrictions of the NHS system. I felt for every patient discussed in What Seems To Be The Problem, and I could really see the benefits of having so many types of health care therapy available under one roof.
On an unrelated note, it blows my mind as an Aussie that GP's in the UK do house calls regularly. Maybe there are a select few that do it here, but I've never seen it or heard about it. I definitely would be an expensive service to offer, but I can see it being so helpful to so many people!
I've been reading a bunch of different medical-type memoirs of late, and What Seems To Be The Problem is easily near the top of the list of the best ones. I found it hard to put this book down at times, and it was one of the better written medical memoirs that I've read. I'd recommend this easily to anyone who enjoys non-fiction, medical memoirs. 4 stars.
----------
My ranking criteria (✅= Yes, ❌= No, ➖= Kind of/a little bit):
*Bonus points if I can't put the book down, it makes me feel strong emotion, or genuinely surprises me in some way.
*Penalty points for editing errors (spelling, grammar, punctuation, etc.), for children who act too mature or too young for their age (this is a bugbear of mine), or if there is something in the book that just really pisses me off for any reason.
1. I was sucked into the story from the beginning ✅
2. The story had a proper beginning, middle, and end ✅
3. The writing evoked a feeling of suspense ➖
4. I was engaged the whole way through/didn't get bored ✅
5. The characters were interesting ✅
6. There was some form of character development ➖
7. The book wasn't predictable in terms of relying on tired tropes, clichés, themes, stereotypes, etc. ✅
8. I cared about the outcome of the story ✅
9. I didn't work out the ending/the ending surprised me ➖
10. The ending was satisfying ➖
🌟 Bonus points: None.
☠️ Penalty points: None.
🏅 OVERALL RANKING: 8/10 (4/5 stars)
----------
Thoughts, Conclusion, and Recommendation:
What Seems To Be The Problem is a memoir written by Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews. The book dives into Laura's journey to discovering the power of alternative types of health care, and then creating a medical practice that could provide those services to her patients. Through telling the stories of individual patients, Laura introduces the utilisation of alternative therapies (e.g. acupuncture, psychiatric homeopathy, art therapy, etc.), and shows the ways in which they can help people in a myriad of ways.
I picked this book up because I saw it was compared favourably to This is Going to Hurt by Adam Kay. While I did enjoy What Seems To Be The Problem, it wasn't really similar to Adam Kay's book; the narratives went in different directions, and it wasn't funny. Still, Laura's writing was excellent, and could be very evocative at times. She did a great job painting a picture of what it was like to be a GP paving a new path within the restrictions of the NHS system. I felt for every patient discussed in What Seems To Be The Problem, and I could really see the benefits of having so many types of health care therapy available under one roof.
On an unrelated note, it blows my mind as an Aussie that GP's in the UK do house calls regularly. Maybe there are a select few that do it here, but I've never seen it or heard about it. I definitely would be an expensive service to offer, but I can see it being so helpful to so many people!
I've been reading a bunch of different medical-type memoirs of late, and What Seems To Be The Problem is easily near the top of the list of the best ones. I found it hard to put this book down at times, and it was one of the better written medical memoirs that I've read. I'd recommend this easily to anyone who enjoys non-fiction, medical memoirs. 4 stars.
July 13, 2023
What Seems to be the Problem is a revelation. It shows that without spending multi millions, individuals and community healthcare practices can make a huge difference to the way healthcare is delivered in the UK. Dr. Laura Marshall-Andrews is a rare individual who has taken the giant leap to radically change her approach to GP care at a personal level and in the way her group practice was organised. It’s not an easy ride but her resilience and fortitude, underpinned by her belief that the current model doesn’t work, has really delivered.
I found the entire narrative absolutely compelling listening. She narrates her book well and from a dramatic opening scene where she’s strangled in her consulting room by a patient who’s demanding to be sectioned, her journey grips and doesn’t let go. Her writing, as well as being informed is lyrical and descriptive. I found her housecall to a patient who was terminally ill particularly moving when she talked entering his flat was like going into his lungs. It was a powerful description. She’s gifted with words and I sincerely hope she writes more.
The book explains the numerous failings with the system. Prescription controls, inspections, referral system, evidence based medicine…the list is endless. As she eloquently points out, the system has lost sight of the fact that real people are the subjects. Their lives are on the line. Doctors are blinkered and increasingly afraid of litigation, so unwilling to step out if line. Big Pharma controls how health care is delivered and if there’s no money in it fir them, it won’t happen. So acupuncture, massage, aromatherapy etc are seen as quackery and ignored.
She demonstrates with conviction that there are different ways to do things that actually improve the lives of patients. An holistic approach where the doctor listens to the problem and offers alternative treatments, often alongside conventional medicine, really works.. I fear hers is a voice in the wilderness which saddens me as I’m sure many listeners will empathise with her approach and know of other circumstances in which it’s worked. I’d make this required reading for politicians involved in health policy and local government leaders responsible for delivery. It’s filled with insight and is one of the most fascinating non fiction titles I’ve ever read.
I found the entire narrative absolutely compelling listening. She narrates her book well and from a dramatic opening scene where she’s strangled in her consulting room by a patient who’s demanding to be sectioned, her journey grips and doesn’t let go. Her writing, as well as being informed is lyrical and descriptive. I found her housecall to a patient who was terminally ill particularly moving when she talked entering his flat was like going into his lungs. It was a powerful description. She’s gifted with words and I sincerely hope she writes more.
The book explains the numerous failings with the system. Prescription controls, inspections, referral system, evidence based medicine…the list is endless. As she eloquently points out, the system has lost sight of the fact that real people are the subjects. Their lives are on the line. Doctors are blinkered and increasingly afraid of litigation, so unwilling to step out if line. Big Pharma controls how health care is delivered and if there’s no money in it fir them, it won’t happen. So acupuncture, massage, aromatherapy etc are seen as quackery and ignored.
She demonstrates with conviction that there are different ways to do things that actually improve the lives of patients. An holistic approach where the doctor listens to the problem and offers alternative treatments, often alongside conventional medicine, really works.. I fear hers is a voice in the wilderness which saddens me as I’m sure many listeners will empathise with her approach and know of other circumstances in which it’s worked. I’d make this required reading for politicians involved in health policy and local government leaders responsible for delivery. It’s filled with insight and is one of the most fascinating non fiction titles I’ve ever read.
July 15, 2023
A very powerful and engaging read highlighting the working challenges of an inspirational GP trying to operate in an oppressive medical system. Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews and her team exercise extreme courage to try and meet the needs of their patients rather than trying to match their patients to set medical interventions. Drawing on a team of alternative therapists Dr Marshall Andrews sees the value in looking at patient care holistically and emphasises the importance of addressing the unique needs of all patients. The power of listening to patients and having an open mind to the different ways they can be helped is so over-looked by many medical practitioners - if only there were more Dr Marshall-Andrews in this world!
The compassion shown by her and her team was so uplifting but the cost to them personally of trying to fight against an out-dated and struggling system was also deeply upsetting.
The audiobook was beautifully narrated and captured the wide variety of emotions expressed throughout.
A highly recommended read and I am grateful to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook.
The compassion shown by her and her team was so uplifting but the cost to them personally of trying to fight against an out-dated and struggling system was also deeply upsetting.
The audiobook was beautifully narrated and captured the wide variety of emotions expressed throughout.
A highly recommended read and I am grateful to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook.
July 24, 2022
This GP’s account of working life is a little different from the rest. There are some genuine laughs and some real tragedies but the theme is delivering holistic care in a system that frustrates that ambition.
Her compassion and empathy are obvious but she’s not frightened to look critically at the structures we’ve created around the practice of modern medicine. There are sharp barbs here for the likes of the CQC and the Medicines Management Team, who take her to a performance review for prescribing the only drug that helps her patient.
Evidence Based Medicine knows it doesn’t always have the answers and should remember it is designed for populations not individuals - but that is too often forgotten. Dr Marshall-Andrews reminds us. For example I’m no fan or believer of homeopathy but the author explains (and convinces me) that sometimes a good therapist with a good placebo can achieve when others fail.
It’s an encouraging story about healthcare in the NHS that dares to think differently.
Her compassion and empathy are obvious but she’s not frightened to look critically at the structures we’ve created around the practice of modern medicine. There are sharp barbs here for the likes of the CQC and the Medicines Management Team, who take her to a performance review for prescribing the only drug that helps her patient.
Evidence Based Medicine knows it doesn’t always have the answers and should remember it is designed for populations not individuals - but that is too often forgotten. Dr Marshall-Andrews reminds us. For example I’m no fan or believer of homeopathy but the author explains (and convinces me) that sometimes a good therapist with a good placebo can achieve when others fail.
It’s an encouraging story about healthcare in the NHS that dares to think differently.
July 29, 2022
What an amazing book! The author takes me on her tense yet full of laughter journey. Her ultimate goal is to make a change in primary care. She loves science and western medicine but she also believes in alternative therapy that may benefit patient better than just popping prescription pills. I enjoyed reading it, because author is real and open, honest and sincere. She was not afraid to highlight mistakes she made in her career.
So many good characters in this book. I really liked her relationship with manager Gary. He seems to be a funny one but also real friend to Dr. Laura. One of my favourite parts of the book was about their first Cqc preparation. They all were highly stressed prior. Especially Gary. Author thought that would not be a surprise if he emegrates to Australia before cqc inspection 🤣😂. Another gripping and well written scene was about Dr. Laura's Court case. This made me cry. The story kept me guessing what's next what's next, could not stop turning pages. Very tense.
So many good characters in this book. I really liked her relationship with manager Gary. He seems to be a funny one but also real friend to Dr. Laura. One of my favourite parts of the book was about their first Cqc preparation. They all were highly stressed prior. Especially Gary. Author thought that would not be a surprise if he emegrates to Australia before cqc inspection 🤣😂. Another gripping and well written scene was about Dr. Laura's Court case. This made me cry. The story kept me guessing what's next what's next, could not stop turning pages. Very tense.
July 21, 2022
Read this in record time! Because it’s so engaging and easy to read. Speaking of a GP’s motivation to do something different. To take action to resolve her patients dis-ease even if the system didn’t offer a solution. A series of real life experiences, we see her and her wonderful team acting with intelligence and compassion for their patients. What could be a more serious or joyful read?
Surprisingly, despite some very sad stories and traumatic events I found myself laughing out loud from time to time. Also in tears at other points in the book.
Beautifully written in simple prose, it explained some medical conditions for the layman where it was needed, so you could more closely relate to the suffering of her characters.
A must for every GP, I’m sure they’d feel liberated by it and imagine the effect on the health of the nation if that were the case?
Surprisingly, despite some very sad stories and traumatic events I found myself laughing out loud from time to time. Also in tears at other points in the book.
Beautifully written in simple prose, it explained some medical conditions for the layman where it was needed, so you could more closely relate to the suffering of her characters.
A must for every GP, I’m sure they’d feel liberated by it and imagine the effect on the health of the nation if that were the case?
July 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this memoir, although I must say I felt it was a little unfair to compare it with Adam Kay’s This is going to hurt. They’re both great books, but they are totally different story’s and certainly completely different people.
I admired Dr. Marshall Andrews open minded views on medicine. I can tell you I easily wish I was in the correct catchment for her practice. She is kind, empathetic and wise, but nobody’s fool. I was repeatedly moved by the characters that make up Laura’s patient file, especially when she lost a patient in the exact same way as I lost my father. I don’t know if an NHS practice like this exists where I live, but I repeatedly questioned, if not, why not?’
Beautifully narrated by the author too. Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins U.K. for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
I admired Dr. Marshall Andrews open minded views on medicine. I can tell you I easily wish I was in the correct catchment for her practice. She is kind, empathetic and wise, but nobody’s fool. I was repeatedly moved by the characters that make up Laura’s patient file, especially when she lost a patient in the exact same way as I lost my father. I don’t know if an NHS practice like this exists where I live, but I repeatedly questioned, if not, why not?’
Beautifully narrated by the author too. Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins U.K. for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
August 13, 2022
Just finished this, received an advanced copy, thoroughly enjoyed this book, could not put it down.
Well written, loved the style of writing and how it was put together. I work in Primary Care at a Local GP Surgery as a Pharmacy Technician and previously worked in Medicines Management and was surprised at the inclusion of the Medicines Management Team and felt ashamed at the attitude the MMT showed this GP Practice.
Dr Marshall-Andrews, who I would love to meet, is a forward thinking GP and you can tell is 150% invested in her patients and nothing is too much for her. I hope, in time for a second book to see what happens with this practice and how it moves forward.
Excellent - 5 stars
Well written, loved the style of writing and how it was put together. I work in Primary Care at a Local GP Surgery as a Pharmacy Technician and previously worked in Medicines Management and was surprised at the inclusion of the Medicines Management Team and felt ashamed at the attitude the MMT showed this GP Practice.
Dr Marshall-Andrews, who I would love to meet, is a forward thinking GP and you can tell is 150% invested in her patients and nothing is too much for her. I hope, in time for a second book to see what happens with this practice and how it moves forward.
Excellent - 5 stars
September 6, 2025
3.5 stars
An informative read of a GP who has a practice slightly different to others. Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews has created a surgery that combines holisitic with medical - such as medication but also singing clubs. Interesting ramge of stories - i wasnt a fan of the chapters being non-chronological as it did not flow as freely.
This book showed the hope GPs can bring and the difficult red tape that makes to hard for patient to access the medication or services they do desperately need
See below notes from during the read:
Darren situation as a 17 year old patient having a mental health illnesses and needing support with camhs and mhurs passing the buck was so frustrating but all too familiar
An informative read of a GP who has a practice slightly different to others. Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews has created a surgery that combines holisitic with medical - such as medication but also singing clubs. Interesting ramge of stories - i wasnt a fan of the chapters being non-chronological as it did not flow as freely.
This book showed the hope GPs can bring and the difficult red tape that makes to hard for patient to access the medication or services they do desperately need
See below notes from during the read:
Darren situation as a 17 year old patient having a mental health illnesses and needing support with camhs and mhurs passing the buck was so frustrating but all too familiar
July 22, 2024
I had the audiobook of this, read by the author, which was very clear & articulate. The content was interesting, as Dr Marshall-Andrews gives us her medical memoirs. She prefers a holistic approach, and she recognises there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to healing. The book is Brighton based but it was nice to hear such praise for Penny Brohn (cancer wellbeing) which is based near me in Bristol. There was quite a lot on Covid near the end which, although relevant at the time, seems like a different lifetime ago now (thankfully!). There were some sad stories which I think is to be expected in a book such as this and, where appropriate, some funny moments. #drlauramarshallandrews #whatseemstobetheproblem
August 17, 2022
I loved the insight of this book. There was honesty based around what a GP working for the NHS in England faces, alongside empathetic stories of patients she had treated across her career. I liked the mishmash of the touching personal stories of patients with a conversation around NHS bureaucracy, politics etc interspersed in between (but not in a boring way). I read this all in two sittings as an ebook. And when I read a book like that, I know it’s good.
July 9, 2024
we all know i love a medical memoir and this was no different!
very interesting look at the way wellbeing can be integrated into the scientific health side of general practice. chapter on covid at the end was a bit too close for comfort lol but it was definitely important to see it from the GP pov, rather than the A&E doctors that are usually regarded as the front line.
devoured it in a day so thats the biggest recommendation i can give
very interesting look at the way wellbeing can be integrated into the scientific health side of general practice. chapter on covid at the end was a bit too close for comfort lol but it was definitely important to see it from the GP pov, rather than the A&E doctors that are usually regarded as the front line.
devoured it in a day so thats the biggest recommendation i can give
August 25, 2024
An absolute joy to read, the fastest book that I have read. Full of interesting anecdotes, personal struggles and reflections, thoughtful observations, personal and team sacrifices and endeavours, broadminded and brave approaches to challenges but more importantly a deeply human approach to not just medicine but to life.
The book really made me change my mind about alternative therapies. A must read for every doctor.
The book really made me change my mind about alternative therapies. A must read for every doctor.
September 5, 2022
GP Dr Laura Marshall-Andrews shares her stories of becoming a GP and the patients along the way who left an impact on her life. This was such an engrossing read and her final section regarding Covid was tough. Genuinely good read for all those that like medical memoirs. Thank you to netgalley and the publishers for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 21, 2022
An interesting discovery that I enjoy medical memoirs, despite being unable to watch any medical drama on tv. Dr Laura shares very humane insights into her book describing new approaches to health and well-being.make you stop and reflect on how fortunate the healthy are and how fragile a life is that consigns others to pain as a constant companion. The pandemic chapters are especially moving.
February 8, 2025
Enlightening story about a doctors journey throughout her early career and sheds light on the struggles caused by NHS beurocracy. The varied stories of the patients she comes across and the themes of grief, substance abuse are written with a clear, refreshing directness.
July 27, 2022
Really interesting, very readable book about a doctor who goes the extra mile for her patients. The pandemic element is so sad. V worthwhile read.
August 29, 2022
Heartbreaking in parts, but really interesting. The Brighton setting was great too
April 2, 2023
Excellent insight into life of a GP
November 2, 2024
Brilliant, funny sad poignant , well observed. Such a shame the rest of the nhs is ham strung with politics and red tape and we don’t all have this wonderful Dr as out GP and advocate
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