Bloxwich Medical Practice

Doctor refused to see me in person

Would give no stars if possible. How can a healthcare professional diagnose what is wrong with you over a telephone call? I have been experiencing significant pain since mid-October when I attended hospital and was advised to contact my GP. When I called on the following Monday, I was informed that appointments were only available via telephone consultation and an in-person visit was not possible. I received a call where I was simply advised to continue with pain management medication. Several days have now passed and my pain persists, making it difficult to walk normally. However, the messaging suggests that face-to-face GP appointments should be readily available, which has not matched my experience.

Outdated approach and poor practice standards

This practice did not meet my expectations. The clinical approach felt outdated and I would recommend considering alternative options elsewhere.

Reception staff made booking straightforward and easy

I'm not sure how anyone could post a negative review about this practice. Calling at peak times results in same-day availability. The reception team are delightful, and the clinical staff are excellent. I've never experienced any problems.

Staff attitude doesn't match the doctors' quality

This practice has been my healthcare provider for many years, but the team has changed considerably. Some members of the nursing staff come across as lacking in empathy and appear unsuited to their role. The practice management also seems to have similar issues. The doctors themselves are generally of a good standard, though the departure of a senior clinician appears to have marked a decline in overall service quality. The practice no longer feels as attentive as it once did.

Refused sample without appointment first

This practice seems to operate by its own rules regardless of circumstances, and this situation exemplifies that perfectly. My relative appeared to have a urinary tract infection. I collected a sample and offered to deliver it to the surgery. However, they refused to accept any samples unless an appointment was scheduled first. The situation became more frustrating when I requested an appointment, only to be told none were available. I was advised to either contact out-of-hours services despite it being mid-morning on a working day, or to wait until the following week. If you are not currently a patient at this practice, I would strongly recommend remaining elsewhere.

Easy to get appointments when you need them

I'm unsure why this practice received such a poor rating. I've consistently been able to secure appointments, even during challenging periods when many other local practices were struggling with availability. I'm grateful that my family member could access care promptly without experiencing lengthy delays.

Receptionists block access to appointments

The reception staff can be dismissive when booking appointments, frequently stating that no slots are available. On the rare occasions when I have secured an appointment, I have found myself waiting alone in the waiting area for extended periods, sometimes up to 45 minutes beyond my scheduled time, despite the room appearing empty throughout. The staff manner has occasionally come across as discourteous.

Reception staff could smile more warmly

The receptionist working at the main desk on Saturday was rather unfriendly. When I approached the counter, she seemed disinterested and gave minimal acknowledgement. After I mentioned I had an appointment, she asked for my name and then directed me through the double doors and to turn left to wait, all without any warmth or pleasantness. In contrast, the clinician I saw was excellent—genuinely caring and took time to explain things thoroughly.

Impossible to reach by phone for appointments

It is extremely difficult to reach the practice by phone, and when contact is finally made, there are typically no available appointments, with the instruction to try calling again later. This system seems impractical for working individuals who cannot repeatedly attempt to get through. The reception team appears to operate with considerable confidence in their approach, though this does not necessarily align with patient needs.

Staff were pleasant and helpful overall

Excellent practice overall, with no significant issues to report. I consistently find the team members to be friendly and supportive in their approach. It would be beneficial if there were online consultation options or a messaging system available, though this is a minor point.

Reception made booking an appointment difficult

I'm surprised this practice has such a high rating. The reception staff come across as unwelcoming and detract from the overall experience at the surgery. While the clinical staff are pleasant and approachable, the real challenge lies in navigating the phone system and then securing an actual appointment slot. Managing this alongside full-time work is quite difficult.

Felt unwelcome during today's appointment

Attended an appointment today with a clinician who appeared frustrated throughout the consultation. I found their manner to be dismissive and unhelpful. I left feeling upset about the experience. I would prefer not to see this clinician again. The practice itself has generally provided good care and I have been satisfied with my previous visits.