Time scale esa assessment

Hello everyone,

I apologise if this has been covered somewhere, I have searched and read through some posts regarding waiting times but I was just wondering if it is normal to go 15 months before initial assessment?

I have rung DWP who told me to ring Maximus which I have done once a month for the past 3 months now and they just say I have to wait for an appointment letter. They have no idea how much longer.

My other issue is my doctor has gone on maternity leave, and on top of that the surgery has been taken over by another group and I'm finding things all very stressful, all these changes are making me extremely anxious.

I am due to send in another fit note next week and even the thought of ringing the doctors to ask for one is stressing me out. Before all the changes it was a simple process. Last month when I rang the receptionist was click-clacking away at the keyboard and with a sharp intake of breath proceeded to tell me ...'oh I should think the doctor will need to see you!' I wasn't aware a receptionist would be either qualified or in a position make this call

I have been to the surgery since my Dr left and saw another 'original' Dr pre take-over and he told me just to do the same and call into request fit note when I needed it. Now I feel as though I am being judged by the receptionist and I have to work myself up to do the simplest of tasks.

Sorry, this is so long.