Cestria Health Centre

Got same-day appointments both times I called

I've called twice this year and received callbacks about my concerns. Both times, I was offered an appointment on the same day. That's certainly impressive service! The team throughout the practice has been excellent, from those at the front desk to the clinical staff. It's important to recognise how stretched these practices are and to use them responsibly when necessary, as I'm sure the staff find it just as challenging as patients do. I'm very satisfied and wouldn't consider going elsewhere.

Long wait for next available appointment

I attended my local practice to arrange an appointment with a clinician and was advised that the earliest available slot was approximately four weeks away. This significant waiting period feels unacceptable to me, and I find the lack of sooner availability to be deeply disappointing.

Reception staff were friendly and helpful

This medical practice delivers excellent services. The reception team are particularly friendly and helpful.

Long waits mean symptoms change before appointments

I have been registered with this practice for approximately 24 years and previously had a positive experience. However, the service has deteriorated significantly. Appointment availability has become problematic, with waits extending to several weeks, and by the time an appointment occurs, symptoms may have changed or resolved. My family and I have collectively decided to seek care elsewhere due to concerns about the level of attention and continuity of care provided. There is a perception that the focus is primarily on processing patients efficiently rather than delivering thorough care. During a recent visit, I experienced a situation where information readily available in the patient records was questioned, which felt dismissive. Given these concerns, I would recommend that others seeking a new practice consider alternative options.

Loyal patient with consistently good care

I have been with this practice throughout my life and would not change a thing. The clinical staff are all very good.

Reception staff made booking straightforward and easy

The health centre in County Durham is probably the most effective practice I have come across. The clinical staff are superb and I cannot thank them enough. The reception team and nursing staff are brilliant, and I cannot find fault with this practice. Well done to all and I am proud to call this my doctors 👍

Long-term patient, always felt well looked after

I've been attending this practice for as long as I can remember and have consistently had positive experiences with every clinician I've encountered. While appointment availability can sometimes be challenging during busy periods, the team has always prioritised urgent cases appropriately. I'm very satisfied with the care provided and wouldn't consider changing practices.

Friendly staff and convenient on-site pharmacy

The practice offers a welcoming atmosphere and demonstrates good expertise among team members. An on-site pharmacy is available for convenience. During busy periods, parking may need to be found on the surrounding streets.

Staff made me feel welcome and heard

The team here was welcoming and approachable.

Struggling to book an appointment here

Frustrated with the difficulty in securing an appointment. The experience feels like entering an unfamiliar establishment where the staff seem to prioritise their existing clientele over new or infrequent visitors.

Staff handled chaos with patience and care

The practice experienced technical difficulties with their systems while managing a high volume of patients, and the team made genuine efforts to cope with the challenging circumstances.

Helpful staff who fit us in quickly

I appreciate the support provided and found the service accommodating for both myself and my family members.

Knowledgeable but parking is a nightmare

The clinician was pleasant and easy to talk to. Despite their relative youth, they demonstrated considerable expertise. However, parking at the practice is consistently problematic regardless of when you visit.

Long-term patient with consistent care

I have been a patient at this practice for many years.

Doctors who actually listen to you

Excellent medical professionals

Easy to book appointments at this practice

Between the two medical practices I've used in the local area, this one has proven to be significantly superior. Securing appointments is reasonably straightforward, and the team members I've encountered—whether clinical or administrative—have been consistently helpful during my attendances. As it's a fairly large facility, the parking area is generally sufficient for most visitors, though it can become congested during busier periods, so arriving with time to spare before your appointment would be advisable.

Friendly reception made the visit pleasant

Excellent

Clean surgery with helpful appointment booking

A pleasant experience with good access to medical professionals and a well-maintained, hygienic environment.