Concord Medical Practice

Long waits and inflexible appointment availability frustrating

I waited over a week for a telephone appointment to discuss the possibility of arranging a scan, following advice from a healthcare professional. I received a reminder message the day before my scheduled appointment at mid-morning. However, I found myself still waiting well into the afternoon. When I contacted the practice to request an urgent appointment with a doctor either that day or the following day due to my concerns, I was informed this would not be possible. I was advised to keep calling in hopes of a cancellation becoming available. Having previously worked as a receptionist in a medical practice, I have never experienced service of this standard. As a result, I have decided to manage my situation without further intervention.

Telephone diagnosis missed serious condition

My sister had a telephone consultation and was told her concerns were not serious and that she was not experiencing breathing difficulties. As has happened before, the clinician suggested it was a viral infection. We questioned how an accurate diagnosis could be made without an in-person examination. Unfortunately, my sister's condition deteriorated significantly over the following days, and we needed to call an ambulance. It was subsequently discovered she had pneumonia. We feel the initial assessment was incorrect, and my sister has decided not to return to this practice. We found the experience very disappointing.

Friendly reception staff and easy appointment booking

I've been attending this practice for approximately 8 years and would happily recommend it to others. I was surprised to notice some negative reviews online, though many of these appear to refer to a different practice located in the same building rather than this one. This practice is situated where another practice previously operated. The reception team are excellent. They're consistently friendly and approachable both in person and over the phone. The practice has a computerised check-in system which allows patients to register their arrival independently. I've found it straightforward to obtain appointments, and on one occasion when I was unable to visit in person, I called for guidance and a clinician arranged a prescription for me to collect at my convenience. Several years ago, the practice also made considerable effort to assist me by arranging alternative appointments for a specific service, which has since relocated to another medical centre. My family members are also registered here and I've found the nursing staff to be very capable. I've received various services including blood tests and specialist appointments, and my experiences have consistently been positive. The practice's own car park is limited, but the building is conveniently positioned near larger free parking facilities and has excellent public transport links. I would thoroughly recommend this practice.

Rushed appointment with little patience shown

This practice falls short of expectations. The clinical approach prioritizes efficiency over patient care, with consultations feeling rushed and dismissive of individual concerns. The experience was unsatisfactory and I would recommend considering alternative providers.

Reception rudeness made an already difficult visit worse

I hadn't visited a GP surgery in over five years. I made the effort to take time away from work to discuss some genuine concerns with a clinician I hadn't met before, as my previous one was no longer available. The receptionist's conduct was quite poor—she was sharp and dismissive simply because I was unfamiliar with the layout of the building. Once I located the consultation room, the appointment was running late. While I understand the clinician couldn't control patient flow, I can speak to how the consultation itself made me feel. Without going into specifics, I felt as though my concerns were being treated as an inconvenience. This was particularly frustrating given that I hadn't attended in nearly a decade and was dealing with an issue that had been impacting my wellbeing and work for over two months. The clinician appeared uninterested in what I had come to discuss. I left without the help I needed and remain in considerable discomfort while I seek care elsewhere. The experience has left me with serious reservations about returning to this practice.

Staff were dismissive and unhelpful throughout

The service was disappointing and the staff interactions were not pleasant.

Knowledgeable and courteous consultation experience

The clinician demonstrated good manners and possessed considerable expertise.

Hard to get appointments with the right person

This practice has not met my expectations. I feel it should reconsider its approach to patient care. I have attended multiple times with my family, and on several occasions felt dismissed, only to subsequently require hospital treatment. I believe only one clinician has properly addressed my concerns, and unfortunately appointments with this person are very difficult to obtain. I have decided to register with a different practice as I am no longer satisfied with the service provided here.

Reception staff could be more considerate

The reception team's approach came across as somewhat dismissive, which may not be ideal for patients managing mental health concerns. Improving staff training and interpersonal skills would be beneficial.

Rushed appointments and unhelpful reception staff

This practice has significant shortcomings. While one clinician demonstrates genuine engagement and attentiveness with patients, others appear rushed and dismissive. The reception staff could benefit from adopting a more courteous and professional approach to patient interactions. I would recommend considering alternative healthcare providers.