Cherry Hinton Medical Centre

Receptionists never pick up the phone

The front desk staff consistently fails to answer incoming calls.

Nothing done after three weeks waiting

I personally registered with complete information, and upon returning after three weeks, discovered that no progress whatsoever had been made. While excuses were offered, there was no genuine apology. My request was subsequently handled right away, but it's clear they lack proper procedures and accountability to monitor and ensure timely completion of applications.

Rude receptionist cut me off, called 111 instead

I phoned in the afternoon to inquire about scheduling a doctor's visit. A rather impolite receptionist questioned me about my symptoms but interrupted before I could fully explain (the conversation was only about half a minute long), claiming they were swamped and suggesting it could be dealt with tomorrow instead. She instructed me to ring back the following morning to arrange an urgent slot. I immediately contacted 111 afterward, and they paid close attention to what I described. Given the nature of my symptoms, they promptly dispatched an ambulance, which transported me directly to hospital. This is a reckless approach to patient care.

Don't bother, they'll abandon you after the form

I'd rate this place one star if possible. Honestly, stay away from this terrible establishment. If you're looking to sign up, don't bother—go somewhere else instead. They'll start processing your application and then leave you hanging once you've submitted everything. The physicians (assuming you manage to get an appointment after waiting five months just to call) are only interested in doing the absolute minimum to avoid spending resources on actually diagnosing your condition. I cannot express my disappointment with this facility strongly enough. Spare yourself the hassle and find another provider—this place is utterly appalling.

Forgot my prescription, scared to come back

I've lived in Cambridge since 2017. Over the 4-5 occasions I've required their services, this practice has only been helpful once. The doctors appear careless and lack genuine compassion. A few of the nursing staff are pleasant and genuinely attentive to patients. I currently have an ear infection without any medication because the doctor "neglected" to submit my prescription. I've reached a stage where I'm anxious about becoming ill because I dread having to rely on this practice.

can't reach them before 8:15 a.m

Incompetent staff...called repeatedly for 3 days at 8 a.m. during their booking hours, but nobody picked up and the line stayed closed. They finally start responding at 8:15, then put you on hold for another 15 minutes. Only to inform you they're completely full despite being first in line. The doctor will supposedly ring you back!!! Since when can a doctor examine a disabled patient through a phone call????? This is utterly appalling!

Got an appointment the same day calling

I'm puzzled by the complaints I've seen posted here... Since becoming a member, I've found the staff to be incredibly accommodating, and I happened to get lucky when I phoned right at 8am one morning and secured an appointment that very afternoon. The support I've received has been outstanding. So take those negative reviews with a grain of salt.

always get in, but expect to wait

Satisfactory in all respects. Appointments are readily available. The facility does appear somewhat worn, likely due to NHS budget constraints. Regarding complaints about unfriendly reception staff, I observed several heated exchanges while waiting. Most involved patients arriving without advance notice and being refused same-day slots. The staff remained courteous throughout (though I noticed mild frustration in their tone), and they helpfully explained that people can ring ahead in the morning or reserve slots online (which I did myself). There's typically at least a thirty-minute wait before seeing a doctor, but I'm still grateful to live somewhere with free healthcare, so accepting these minor shortcomings seems reasonable.

Staff ignored us for forty minutes straight

The priorities in this facility are clearly misaligned, with patients and service users being treated as the lowest concern!

Doctor didn't understand my complex conditions

This has been the most disappointing experience imaginable. I moved here because of my disability and genuinely believe this procedure has destroyed my quality of life. I have multiple serious health issues that affect me every single day, and the physician I encountered was terrible. She demonstrated no knowledge of my medical history and refused to assist me, despite my prior operation having created significant obstacles to living a typical life and maintaining employment. I'm appalled that the front desk employees continue to work there given their hostile demeanor and unprofessional conduct.

receptionists made booking an appointment impossible

This surgery in Cambridge has absolutely terrible receptionists. They're incredibly impolite and provide no assistance whatsoever. The appointment booking process is absurd and nearly impossible to navigate, and the team clearly couldn't be bothered to help. I'm seriously considering switching to a different practice.

receptionists handled the stress really well

The front desk staff at both the Fishers Lane and Brookfield locations are excellent. The physicians and nursing team are all outstanding despite working in a demanding environment. They're unable to schedule appointments that aren't available. We're fortunate to have such a wonderful NHS system in our nation.