Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals significant challenges with appointment access and phone system functionality. Many patients report extended waiting times when calling, with frequent disconnections and long queues that make booking difficult, particularly for those with work commitments. Reception experience is mixed, with some patients describing staff as discourteous and dismissive, while others praise their helpfulness and professionalism. Communication barriers and accessibility issues are recurring concerns, with patients noting difficulty reaching the practice and frustration with same-day-only booking policies.

In contrast, clinical care receives consistent positive recognition. Patients frequently commend doctors and nursing staff for their competence, attentiveness, and compassionate approach during consultations and procedures. Vaccination services are highlighted as smoothly operated and well-coordinated. Several patients acknowledge that systemic pressures and high demand contribute to operational challenges, though this does not excuse service gaps.

The practice demonstrates capability in delivering quality medical care, but operational barriers significantly impact patient experience. Improvements to phone infrastructure, reception courtesy consistency, and appointment accessibility would address the most frequently cited frustrations while building on the foundation of clinical excellence that many patients value.

Appointment

28.90 %
Bad

Reception

32.15 %
Bad

Cleanliness

45.00 %
Poor

Care

62.30 %
Average

Respect

31.20 %
Bad

Seen on time

35.75 %
Poor

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SN

Sharon N. 8 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

  • Appointment

    Excellent
  • Reception

    Excellent
  • Cleanliness

    Excellent
  • Care

    Excellent
  • Respect

    Excellent
  • Seen On Time

    Excellent

GP Excellent

I am writing this review as I had an appointment with Dr Abeyratna last week and she was amazing. I feel she went above and beyond with my care. We had to call an ambulance and she stayed with me until the ambulance arrived. Blackwater staff were also amazing and we cannot thank you enough.

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HL

Helen L. Google one year ago

Rating

Poor!

Frustrating healthcare experience with unhelpful nhs support

Just rang up seeking guidance about my dad's clear urinary tract infection, given my nursing background and his evident symptoms including mild confusion. Was advised to either contact them tomorrow at 8 am or use 111 after 6:30 pm if truly worried. Seriously? If I wasn't genuinely concerned, I wouldn't have called! Now waiting for 111's promised callback within an hour (which hasn't happened). Dad urgently needs antibiotics. Classic NHS response - not impressed! Brought my mum in today - she has Parkinson's and dementia. I now transport her in a wheelchair for convenience. Well, "convenient" might be stretching it - easier to move her, but parking is a nightmare. There's just one disabled spot already occupied. I need substantial space to maneuver her in and out of the car, which means parking on yellow lines, unloading the wheelchair, getting mum out, then leaving her while I find another parking space. The return journey is equally complicated. The car park is ridiculously small compared to patient numbers. Parking is incredibly scarce, and this situation definitely requires a serious review.

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GT

Graham T. Google one year ago

Rating

Great!

Smooth surgery and excellent care at clinic

Underwent a small procedure today, and I couldn't be more pleased. The entire process was completely comfortable, and the staff provided exceptional care. Our local minor surgery facility is truly an essential healthcare resource. My gratitude goes out to the team.

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SE

Stephen E. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care and professionalism at blackwater surgery

I recently underwent a minor surgical procedure performed by Dr Geranmayeh and Mrs Rachel Downes, and I must say the service was exceptional. They thoroughly explained the process, noting that the local anesthetic would be the most uncomfortable part - which indeed was just a brief, mild stinging lasting only 2-3 seconds. Dr Geranmayeh completed the procedure swiftly, and within approximately 5 minutes, I was ready to leave. I want to emphasize what a fantastic and smooth experience this was. Sincere thanks to Blackwater Surgery for their outstanding care!

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SM

Sarah M. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Friendly staff makes medical office experience better

During my recent interactions, I've encountered a delightful receptionist who consistently demonstrates exceptional customer service through their helpfulness and calm demeanor. Their professional approach has truly made a positive impression on me.

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KG

Keith G. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Smooth and efficient covid and flu vaccination experience

Got my flu and covid vaccinations yesterday. Everything went smoothly, and I was seen precisely at 3:10 after checking in briefly at reception. The entire process was impressively coordinated, especially considering they were short-staffed due to a doctor's absence. The nurse who administered shots to both my wife and me was exceptionally pleasant. Overall, it was a highly positive experience, with the team demonstrating remarkable efficiency despite what must have been a challenging work environment.

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DF

David F. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and painless vaccine experience

Got there right on schedule for my vaccinations, checked in and barely waited before being called. Two lovely nurses welcomed me - one handled my paperwork while the other administered the shots. The entire process was quick, smooth, and completely painless. Every staff member present was incredibly kind and supportive. Absolutely excellent experience.

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UU

Unanimous U. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Great service with continuous improvements

The staff are incredibly welcoming, and the business has implemented numerous recent upgrades. Additionally, they offer a wide range of comprehensive services.

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HW

Helen W. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Smooth and swift vaccination experience at clinic

We just got our covid and flu shots at the clinic today. As per usual, the process was smooth and speedy. Kudos to the wonderful staff for their excellent service.

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MX

Mason X. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Blackwater medical center fails patients miserably

Individuals are enduring misery simply by being condemned to this dreadful medical facility. Heaven help you should any medical issue arise while trapped in the "treatment" of such an indolent, chaotic institution. You'd have better odds securing prescription medication from a street vagrant than getting Blackwater medical center to respond when attempting to schedule an appointment.

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LJ

Laura J. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Surprisingly pleasant medical experience

A truly delightful medical procedure. Everything went smoothly and the staff were incredibly kind and professional. I couldn't have asked for a better experience during my surgical intervention. The surgeon was skilled and attentive, making me feel completely comfortable throughout the entire process. Highly recommend!

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AB

Adele B. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Friendly staff and helpful doctor made my day

Recently reached out to the medical practice. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly, and I quickly secured an appointment without any hassle. The doctor I consulted was thorough and helped me feel comfortable throughout the consultation. I would definitely suggest this healthcare facility to others.

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AB

Adam B. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Great care and quick appointment at clinic

I visited my general practitioner recently, and scheduling an appointment was a breeze. The doctor was attentive during our consultation, carefully hearing out my concerns and conducting a thorough examination.

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CR

Carla R. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional healthcare experience at blackwater medical centre

Blackwater medical staff, including both physicians and front desk personnel, have consistently provided exceptional care for my entire family. I've never encountered any problems with this healthcare facility, and in comparison to other medical practices, I believe they truly excel in their service.

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JC

Jacob C. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Great!

Helpful surgery with some hit and miss doctors

Doesn't deserve a single star rating. It's clear everyone wants to secure their spot when services begin. Sometimes I can't immediately join the queue, but that's fine - I'll wait a few minutes and retry. Fortunately, the queuing system offers a callback feature where if you're far back in line, you can press 0 while waiting. This allows you to disconnect and continue with your day while maintaining your position. When you reach the front, the surgery will contact you. Booking appointments well in advance through the NHS app is convenient, and whenever I've called with questions, the reception staff have been incredibly supportive and helpful. It's unfair to criticize the surgery for being overwhelmed by high demand. Instead, direct your frustrations towards local government representatives who have the power to address the shortage of medical facilities in an expanding community. The quality of doctors varies - some are exceptional, others less so. It's essentially a gamble. However, recently my interactions have been positive, with my health concerns being taken seriously and treated appropriately.

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JM

Jonathon M. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible phone service that drives me crazy

Absolute worst mobile carrier I've ever encountered in my entire life

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LF

Lea F. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Average!

Disappointing experience with terrible customer service

Consistently subpar customer assistance and support

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SS

Stevielee S. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Smooth sailing through surgery with amazing team

Smooth sailing throughout the entire surgical procedure and interactions with the medical team, with absolutely no complications or concerns to report.

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DH

Donna H. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Swift help from caring medical professionals

I encountered an issue and sought help, so I called and described my circumstances to the front desk staff, who promptly arranged for a physician to contact me. The matter was resolved swiftly and effectively, all within sixty minutes. I'd like to emphasize that the reception team are professionals performing their duties, and treating them disrespectfully is unacceptable...........

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DH

Dawn H. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care through our cancer journey

Grateful acknowledgment to the compassionate front desk staff and Dr Teateno, who have provided incredible support to our family since our son's osteosarcoma diagnosis last year. The feeling of being genuinely heard and understood means everything to us. Kudos to Backwater Medical Center for their outstanding care—we're truly fortunate to be your patients.

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About the GP

  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 01621 876760
  • Blackwater Medical Centre Princes Road Maldon Essex CM9 5GP

Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals significant challenges with appointment access and phone system functionality. Many patients report extended waiting times when calling, with frequent disconnections and long queues that make booking difficult, particularly for those with work commitments. Reception experience is mixed, with some patients describing staff as discourteous and dismissive, while others praise their helpfulness and professionalism. Communication barriers and accessibility issues are recurring concerns, with patients noting difficulty reaching the practice and frustration with same-day-only booking policies.

In contrast, clinical care receives consistent positive recognition. Patients frequently commend doctors and nursing staff for their competence, attentiveness, and compassionate approach during consultations and procedures. Vaccination services are highlighted as smoothly operated and well-coordinated. Several patients acknowledge that systemic pressures and high demand contribute to operational challenges, though this does not excuse service gaps.

The practice demonstrates capability in delivering quality medical care, but operational barriers significantly impact patient experience. Improvements to phone infrastructure, reception courtesy consistency, and appointment accessibility would address the most frequently cited frustrations while building on the foundation of clinical excellence that many patients value.

Appointment

28.90 %
Bad

Reception

32.15 %
Bad

Cleanliness

45.00 %
Poor

Care

62.30 %
Average

Respect

31.20 %
Bad

Seen on time

35.75 %
Poor
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