Blacketts Medical Practice

Reception staff made me feel unwelcome

I was unable to reach the clinical staff as I did not progress that far in my visit. However, I feel compelled to share that my interaction with a member of the management team was extremely disappointing. I found this person to be discourteous, unpleasant, and lacking in professionalism. It is difficult to understand how someone with such a confrontational demeanor maintains their position. I would not recommend this practice.

Reception staff didn't listen to my concerns

I experienced a prolonged period of serious illness spanning several months. During this time, multiple clinicians at the practice suggested a straightforward diagnosis, but I felt this wasn't addressing my condition adequately. I decided to seek care at the accident and emergency department at my local hospital instead. Following this, I was eventually referred to a specialist who identified what was actually wrong with me. I subsequently required an extended hospital stay for treatment. I am grateful to have made a good recovery, though I remain concerned that the delay in reaching the correct diagnosis could have resulted in more significant harm to my health.

Dismissed and disbelieved when I needed help

When I first began experiencing symptoms of my rheumatic condition, I felt that the clinical staff, administrative team and management at this practice treated me poorly. On several occasions, I believed my symptoms were being dismissed as psychological rather than physical, and I was told I was too young to have certain conditions despite a family history of similar issues. I also felt judged when seeking pain management support. During one appointment when I presented with concerning new symptoms, I felt the clinician was unwilling to provide assistance and did not explain their reasoning. I left that visit very distressed and frightened. This experience prompted me to transfer to a different practice, which proved to be a significant positive change for my care. I now receive treatment for my condition that is effective and has made a meaningful difference to my wellbeing. I believe the experience at my previous practice had a considerable impact on my mental health at that time. I have found it difficult to move past how I was made to feel during those appointments.

Got appointment quickly and felt properly listened to

A very positive experience. We were able to secure an appointment with our preferred clinician in just over a week. The appointment ran on schedule, and the clinician demonstrated genuine concern, taking adequate time to listen to our concerns and discuss them thoroughly. We were offered two subsequent appointments within the following week. The service was professional and supportive throughout - we would strongly recommend.

Helpful but felt judged during appointment

I've consistently had positive experiences at this practice when I've needed care, though on one occasion I felt judged by a member of the medical staff, which was quite frustrating.

Couldn't get through on the phone to book

Attempting to schedule an appointment for mental health support has proven extremely challenging, as it is very difficult to reach the practice by phone. I am considering switching to a different practice, and when I do manage to secure an appointment, there are often significant delays with appointments running considerably behind schedule.

Registration required photo ID without exception

I was asked to provide photographic identification in order to register, despite having been a patient at the practice previously as a younger person. When I relocated to a different area, my previous healthcare provider indicated they could no longer manage my ongoing medication needs due to the change in location. This left me without my regular prescription for a week, during which I experienced a serious health incident. I felt the situation was handled poorly and was very disappointed with how the practice managed my registration and continuity of care. 😠

Poor communication and careless mistakes here

Received an incorrect container for a sample collection, requiring me to repeat the process. I was only informed of this issue two days after contacting the practice to inquire about when my results would be available. On a separate occasion, when calling about a different matter, I experienced a call being disconnected while I was speaking. Over my three years as a patient, I have encountered several disappointing interactions. I am considering changing to a different practice and would not recommend this surgery to others.

Long waits but caring doctors

The medical professionals here are competent. Occasionally there are extended periods between arrival and appointment.

Prescription stopped without warning or appointment

When I registered with this practice, all of my regular medications were stopped, and I was informed that the soonest available appointment to discuss reinstatement was approximately a month later, which left me without essential respiratory medication during that period. Additionally, the practice appears to have frequent closure periods for training purposes, which limits availability. When appointments do take place, there can be significant delays, with consultations sometimes running an hour or more behind schedule.

Staff were helpful and appointments came through quickly

I find the staff to be helpful and approachable. The clinical team members are very competent, understanding and well-organised. I have consistently been able to secure appointments within a reasonable timeframe without difficulty.

Reliable care despite tricky appointment booking

I have consistently had positive experiences at this practice. The clinical staff demonstrate competence and professionalism, and the reception team maintains the same high standard. While scheduling appointments can occasionally present challenges, I have always been able to see a healthcare professional on the day I requested.

Chronic delays and chaotic waiting room atmosphere

Appointments frequently run behind schedule, with waits typically extending well beyond the scheduled time. Getting an appointment in the first place proves challenging. The waiting area atmosphere is often uncomfortable, with patients openly discussing their preferences regarding which clinicians they will or won't see. The overall experience feels poorly managed.