Very true - this is still the case now. The added an "Urgent Care Centre" to our local hospital to absorb people coming in because their GP was overbooked. They're really good though to the point people just go down there straight away rather than going to their doctor. You can get in and out within an hour with a prescription handed over to you with no prior appointment.
Ultimately, the GP should disappear and more of these centres tied to the hospitals should appear. They are more than walk-in-centres as well at which they are sometimes limited to what they can prescribe. Our local walk-in-centre can't even prescribe antibiotics or provide any help to anyone under the age of 3.
When I was a child, my GP (in South London) didn't have an appointment system. You just showed up, took a number from the hook, and waited until your number was called. You would always be seen the same day if you showed up before closing time.
When I went to university (in another town) I registered with the GP surgery recommended by the college. When I had occasion to use their services, I was _shocked_ to discover that (i) I had to make an appointment and (ii) I would have to wait a week to get one.
I was recommended to see the college nurse (who, if I recall correctly, was unable to prescribe medication). I ended up going back to my parents' home in London for almost a week. I got better, but it would have been quicker and less disruptive if I could have just seen a doctor and got some medicine soon after I became sick.
Ultimately, the GP should disappear and more of these centres tied to the hospitals should appear. They are more than walk-in-centres as well at which they are sometimes limited to what they can prescribe. Our local walk-in-centre can't even prescribe antibiotics or provide any help to anyone under the age of 3.