Beacon Medical Centre

Reception attitude made things worse

This has been the most disappointing medical practice I have experienced. The level of communication falls short of expectations, the front desk staff come across as unwelcoming and lacking in empathy, and attempting to reach the surgery by phone proves extremely frustrating with calls going unanswered. Securing an appointment presents considerable difficulty. Additionally, a callback that was expected did not materialise, which resulted in an unexpected hospital visit over the weekend for a young family member.

Staff explained the vaccination clearly

Recently attended for a third covid booster appointment. Everything went smoothly. The staff were excellent. I was informed about which vaccine I would be receiving.

Helpful staff made the appointment smooth

Well-organised practice with a helpful and efficient team

Staff rushed through appointments without explanation

My wife recently attended an appointment for a routine vaccination. The staff appeared to lack warmth and the experience felt rushed and impersonal, rather than providing the attentive care one would expect from a medical practice. There was limited explanation provided about the procedure, and the waiting area seemed inadequately furnished. The overall approach felt unprofessional to us. My wife was left uncertain about which specific vaccine she received, and the staff did not seem particularly concerned about addressing her questions. We found the experience disappointing and would not recommend this practice.

Impossible to book an appointment here

I have been a long-standing patient at this practice and have recently found it increasingly difficult to secure an appointment, having attempted to do so over several days without success. The experience has been disappointing, particularly as I have been with the surgery for many years. Following these difficulties, I have made the decision to transfer my family's care to another local practice, where we have found it easier to access appointments. The overall service experience has left me feeling very dissatisfied.

Long phone waits and unhelpful advice given

This practice fell short of expectations. When calls were answered, the guidance provided was not satisfactory. Waiting approximately twenty minutes for someone to respond regarding a young child's matter was disappointing and unacceptable.

Receptionist went above and beyond to help

Spoke to a member of staff today who was a real credit to the practice. They couldn't do enough to help me. Big thanks

Impossible to reach when urgent help is needed

I found this surgery to be extremely frustrating. Obtaining appointments is very difficult, as the booking system requires calling within a specific morning window, yet I often wait on hold for extended periods only to be informed that no slots remain available. Most significantly, I experienced a deeply distressing situation where a family member passed away while awaiting a callback from the practice. We felt compelled to contact emergency services, but unfortunately this was too late. A callback was received several hours after the death occurred. I have decided to lodge a formal complaint regarding this experience and intend to pursue the matter further through appropriate channels.

Well organized practice with polite staff

An exceptionally well-structured practice with courteous and professional staff members.

Efficient vaccination process and friendly staff

Efficient, friendly, helpful and polite 🙂 Their vaccination process was super efficient 👍

Staff worked hard and kept things clean

Extremely satisfied with my visit overall. The team demonstrated considerable dedication and effort throughout. The waiting area was maintained to a high standard with prompt attention to cleanliness between patients.

New phone system needs urgent improvement

The recent changes to the telephone system have been quite problematic and would benefit from urgent attention and improvement.

Long phone wait times left me frustrated

The phone service was extremely disappointing, with an exceptionally long wait time that tested my patience considerably. Despite the repeated assurances that my call mattered to them, the experience left me feeling frustrated and undervalued.

Didn't feel listened to during appointment

The clinician displayed a dismissive manner and seemed unwilling to engage with my concerns. There appeared to be a lack of attentiveness to what I was attempting to communicate. Improved communication skills would be beneficial.

Vaccination process was quick and efficient

Like many other patients, the Centre managed my vaccination programme with excellent results. The entire procedure was executed flawlessly. The process from initial check-in through to finishing was remarkably swift and well-organised! Outstanding experience.

Well organised vaccination appointment from start to finish

My partner and I attended this morning for a vaccination appointment. From arrival through to departure, the entire experience was efficiently organised, and the team members were attentive and supportive. We appreciate the care provided.

Long phone waits but helpful staff overall

I have been a patient at this practice for more than three decades, and naturally it has evolved over time, as most medical practices do. Several new clinicians have joined the team in recent years, and those I have consulted with have provided excellent care. I have not experienced any discourteous behaviour from staff members. However, getting through on the telephone can involve considerable waiting times, which can be frustrating. Throughout the pandemic period, both the practice and its pharmacy service demonstrated genuine helpfulness, including arranging delivery of prescriptions as needed.

Staff responded quickly to my concern

The entire team demonstrated helpfulness and friendliness throughout my visits. I recently required assistance with a routine procedure, which was provided without difficulty despite challenging circumstances. When I raised a concern, I received a prompt response within a couple of days and was appropriately directed to specialist care. The service provided was excellent. I am grateful to everyone involved in my care.

Good staff have moved on unfortunately

The practice was satisfactory previously, though there has been a noticeable change in personnel. 😞

Friendly staff made me feel welcome

This practice has consistently provided me with excellent care and a welcoming approach. The staff have always been approachable and supportive throughout my visits. I have spoken positively about this practice to those around me and would highly recommend it to others.