Biddlestone Health Group

Long phone queue, confusing appointment options

I waited a considerable time on the phone attempting to schedule an appointment, which I anticipated would be the case. Once I reached someone, I was offered a callback consultation option. I agreed to this arrangement, only to be informed shortly after that this wouldn't be possible and that I should contact the practice again the following day.

Waiting times have got much worse lately

I've had some rather disappointing encounters with the practice lately. The service was considerably better before the pandemic.

Struggling to manage under severe funding pressures

Managing effectively despite significant reductions in healthcare funding

Accessible e-consults made appointments straightforward

I have been attending this practice for approximately a decade. Obtaining an appointment has never presented a difficulty, and the team has consistently demonstrated flexibility in accommodating my access needs, as I am unable to use telephone communication. I find the online consultation service particularly effective for my circumstances. Being a healthcare professional myself, I am aware of the significant pressures facing general practices currently, yet the entire staff here has remained consistently courteous and supportive throughout my time as a patient. Excellent service overall.

Appointments easier than down south

Anyone complaining about it being difficult to get an appointment should really try living in any major city south of Leeds I've just moved back from the area after six months, one of the main reasons being because I have some ongoing health concerns and I needed better GP service...and I receive it from this practice every single time

Felt genuinely looked after during appointment

Despite the challenges facing the NHS and general practice more broadly, I consistently feel well cared for at this practice. The team does excellent work!

Quick and efficient flu jab appointment

Recently received a vaccination appointment that was completed quickly and smoothly.

Friendly staff made the appointment easy

Our practice is excellent. The team members are friendly and very supportive. The clinical care provided is outstanding.

Phone lines push you toward the website instead

This practice was previously regarded as one of the better ones in the area. However, the standard of care has declined noticeably in recent times. When contacting the surgery for assistance, callers are frequently directed to use the online resources, regardless of whether these actually address their specific concerns. The focus appears to be on ending calls quickly rather than providing genuine support. Those who do not call at the earliest opportunity in the morning often find themselves unable to access help, with staff suggesting alternative services like walk-in clinics instead of resolving matters directly.

Couldn't get an appointment when practice was open

If you're not able to offer available slots, why remain open to the public? I intend to escalate my concerns through the appropriate regulatory channels and patient advocacy services that oversee general practice. For anyone experiencing similar difficulties or feeling that their health concerns have not been adequately addressed, there are formal complaint procedures available through these oversight bodies.

Impossible to book an appointment before eight thirty

Getting an appointment feels incredibly difficult. The booking system requires calling at a specific early morning time, and even then it's often impossible to reach anyone or find available slots. For those with limited time off or commitments during the morning calling window, advance booking isn't really an option. Instead, you're left repeatedly calling and hoping to eventually connect. The current approach works for people with flexible schedules, but for anyone juggling work or other responsibilities, accessing care becomes a significant challenge. It seems counterintuitive that the process for seeking medical help is made so demanding and stressful.

Impossible to book appointments through phone queue

To secure an appointment, you need to begin calling at 8:30 am and manage to get through within the first quarter hour, otherwise all available slots are gone. Last week I made multiple attempts starting precisely at 8:30, and only succeeded in reaching someone at 08:46, only to be told there were no remaining appointments. The same situation has occurred today, and as I complete this review, appointments remain unavailable. Meanwhile, I am at home caring for an unwell child. The service leaves much to be desired. I was subsequently advised to attempt booking on a different day of the week. It appears I should plan my child's illness around the practice's availability schedule.

Same-day responses made things straightforward

I have been in contact with the practice on multiple occasions using both telephone and online consultation methods, with clinical staff responding promptly on the same day to assess my needs and arrange prescription collection. When required, face to face appointments were made available to me on two separate occasions. Overall, my interactions with the reception team, nursing staff, and clinical practitioners have been very positive. I have consistently found them to be attentive and compassionate, and I have great appreciation for the entire team.

Home visit helped me get mobile again

I would like to express my gratitude to the trainee healthcare professional who visited my home to assist with my musculoskeletal issue. I am pleased to report that I have made good progress and have regained my mobility. The care provided was of a high standard and I am very appreciative of the service received.

Inconsistent care and repeated prescription errors

I've attended several appointments and seen a different clinician on each occasion. Additionally, there have been ongoing issues with my repeat medication over an extended period, despite repeatedly clarifying what I require. I've been considering changing practices for some time, and I feel this is the right moment to do so. I'm unable to continue with the current situation. I would not recommend this practice to others.

Reception staff were genuinely kind and helpful

The entire team consistently demonstrated kindness and helpfulness :)

Reception staff attitude needs improvement

One member of the reception team is consistently helpful and accommodating. However, another receptionist could benefit from additional customer service training. I found interactions with this person to be challenging, as they did not appear to listen fully and tended to interrupt conversations in a somewhat preachy manner.

Smooth and efficient flu jab appointment

Received a vaccination and the staff were excellent, with everything running smoothly and efficiently. Well done and keep up the good work. 👏👏👏👏

Quick callbacks and thorough follow-up care

The clinical staff are professional and efficient. I typically receive a response within a few hours and there is always appropriate follow-up care if any concerns arise. 👍🏽

Struggling to book appointments at this practice

Struggling to secure an appointment at this practice, unfortunately. That said, the clinical staff members are genuinely professional and pleasant when you do manage to see them.