It is really hard
A lot of clinics are very busy and you can end up being treated like a number.

I think the best suggestion I can give is that you ask around about other clinics - they're not all the same. Maybe you can find one that's not so busy, or that takes a little more time to look after you better.

All the best~~

ETA - also, I think maybe your GP can back-date a referral...?