Dingle Park Practice

Once a truly community based Dr's... Not anymore..!

I have been a patient at this practice for a truly considerable amount of time... I've seen Drs come and go...some better than others but mostly a very high standard...in the last 6/7 years I've watched it decline in both quality and the service they provide. I used to hear the horror stories from other people about not being able to get appointments and their GP being of no use... being under Dingle Park Practice I considered myself fortunate... You could usually get to see the Dr of your choice reasonably quickly... nowadays they have become like most other surgeries and it has become virtually impossible to see your Dr of choice...it's a different Dr every time and you build up no relationship with any of them as a result...plus the Drs seem to have no genuine interest in your condition/s...then there's the ability to actually contact the surgery via phone... It's all but impossible...now it's an app...where you have to enter NHS numbers...fill in multiple sections abouts symptoms, how long you've been ill, have you considered using a pharmacist for your issue. Is it an emergency? Can you go to hospital? Then you list your ailments I'm assuming so the receptionist/admin staff can prioritise how and when you get access to a Dr...I can only imagine how the older generations struggle with no smartphone and can't access NHS/National Insurance numbers easily...and can't navigate apps because they don't use modern phones...it's such a shame to see a decline of this nature to what was once a real community proud service... horrible to witness...

Reception unhelpful about digital system transition

The reception staff member I spoke with was unhelpful when I called to clarify the process following the practice's move to a new digital system. I was advised to ring back and await test results, being informed that contact would only occur if findings were concerning, otherwise documentation would be retained on file. I had, however, already accessed the reports via the patient portal some days prior. Regardless, I have a health matter requiring proper assessment independent of the test outcomes, as other treatment options may be relevant. The dismissive and inattentive approach has made it challenging to obtain suitable advice and has unfortunately created additional complications rather than supporting resolution.

Difficult to get through on the phone

A challenging practice to work with

Appointment system frustrating and difficult to navigate

I am writing to formally express my concern and dissatisfaction regarding the medical services and appointment system at your facility. This place is excellent for emergency cases only. However, for other medical conditions such as joint or foot problems, even after reaching the doctor and being referred to physical therapy, nothing really changes or improves. Regarding certain diagnostic testing, I was informed during my visit that your facility does not perform these tests because they are considered too expensive. I believe such tests are important and should be available for accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Although the reception staff are kind and respectful, the new appointment system has become very difficult and frustrating. The waiting time now exceeds two weeks, and it has been almost impossible to reach the doctor. At first, I was told that my appointment would be in a week, but after waiting, I was later informed that additional support was not available. I have waited for more than 12 hours without any result. Later, another appointment was scheduled a couple of days afterward, but until now I have not received any call or update regarding my appointment. I sincerely hope that my next appointment will not take the entire day, as it is unreasonable to put my whole life on hold waiting for an uncertain call. Over the past several years, I do not recall being properly treated for any illness except once, despite my continuous visits. I truly appreciate the kindness and professionalism of your staff; however, these ongoing issues need serious attention and improvement to ensure that patients receive the care they deserve. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. I look forward to your response and to seeing real improvements in the system.

Nurse made me feel genuinely reassured

The entire team demonstrates professionalism, compassion, and efficiency in their work. I would particularly like to highlight one of the nursing staff members, whose exceptional approach to patient care stands out. This individual consistently goes the extra mile to ensure patients feel at ease and supported throughout their care. They are a genuine asset to the practice and represent some of the finest healthcare professionals I have encountered. The practice is fortunate to have such a dedicated team member, and patients benefit greatly from their commitment.

Online booking system suddenly removed without warning

The practice seems to have made some questionable decisions regarding their appointment system. Initially, they encouraged patients to use their online booking platform as an alternative to calling at 8am, which many of us adapted to and found convenient for routine matters. However, they have now discontinued this system and reverted to requiring everyone to call during standard hours from the start of October. This change feels frustrating given that the underlying issue of access for those with genuine medical needs and non-urgent cases remains unresolved.

Struggled to get appointment despite repeated calls

My wife has been attempting to secure an appointment for approximately three months without success, and despite her circumstances requiring priority consideration, she has been unable to receive even a telephone consultation, let alone an in-person visit. This has occurred despite calling first thing each morning. The reception staff member appeared to lack understanding of her situation when she explained her health concerns. This experience has been deeply frustrating and we feel the service fell short of what we would expect.

Impossible to book an appointment here

Not worth registering with this practice. Obtaining an appointment is extremely difficult. There is no advance booking system available, requiring patients to either call at opening time or submit an online request for same-day slots that fill immediately. This is particularly problematic for those with work commitments who cannot be available to call first thing in the morning. The reception team came across as unwelcoming and unhelpful during interactions.

Reception staff didn't understand appointment booking process

I recently called the practice and spoke with a receptionist who appeared uncertain about the procedures. I had to clarify basic details about how appointments work and who manages them. Following this conversation, it became apparent that there were no available slots.

Doctor called but didn't engage properly

I had a phone appointment with a clinician today. They called me and displayed their number, though the interaction felt somewhat brief. After waiting several days, the matter was resolved satisfactorily.

Website information doesn't match actual services offered

Called to arrange an appointment through the extended hours service advertised on the website for a Saturday or evening slot, but was informed this service is not available. When I referenced the website information, the receptionist repeatedly stated they cannot pre-book appointments and are not open at those times. The website appears to contain outdated information about available services. This is frustrating, particularly as I am unable to call at opening time and all online slots disappear within minutes. When I attempt to book after the initial rush or visit in person, no appointments remain available. Securing an appointment feels very difficult. I preferred the approach of a previous receptionist, who was far more helpful and knowledgeable, in contrast to the current experience which felt dismissive and unwelcoming.

Impossible to book appointments by phone

If you mean the Riverside location, attending in person appears to be necessary to secure appointments. The telephone lines are frequently unavailable, and when contact is made, staff typically indicate that no appointment slots are currently available and suggest calling back the following day.

Confusing appointment process with broken photo system

The appointment booking process requires calling ahead, and when contact is made, you're informed the GP will ring you rather than scheduling a formal appointment. The available time window spans from 8am to 6pm, which feels impractical. Subsequently, a text message directs you to upload images for the doctor to review prior to the telephone consultation, but the login system fails to function properly. This means the doctor is expected to assess your symptoms without visual information to determine whether an in-person appointment is necessary. The overall system feels poorly designed.

Impossible to reach reception by phone

Extremely disappointing experience with the reception team. Appointments are only available if you call at 8 am, and it takes numerous attempts to get through to someone who then informs you there are no slots available. The receptionist came across as unhelpful and dismissive. The clinical staff seemed indifferent to patient concerns and were unable to provide adequate care. The consultations felt unproductive and unhelpful. It's frustrating when primary care services operate in this manner, as it contributes to unnecessary pressure on hospital services.

Staff really went the extra mile

First class practice with excellent clinicians and support staff. The team consistently goes out of their way to provide assistance in any way they can.

Reception team went above and beyond for me

This practice represents excellent standards in the area, with the reception team being particularly outstanding. The front desk staff are consistently helpful and regularly go the extra mile to support patients. The clinical team are also very pleasant and professional. Sincere appreciation for the ongoing assistance provided by everyone at the practice.

Reception staff were genuinely polite and helpful

The service provided here is excellent, with courteous and compassionate reception staff, skilled clinical professionals, and a welcoming pharmacy team. The practice offers various services on-site, including blood tests and additional facilities that are not always accessible at other general practices. Thank you for the care provided. It is worth noting that, like many general practices currently, obtaining an appointment can present challenges, though this reflects broader systemic pressures rather than any shortcoming of the practice itself.

Poor communication and lack of follow-up care

The service provided was disappointing and appeared lacking in effort. A medication prescribed seemed to worsen the situation rather than improve it, and there was insufficient support and communication throughout the treatment period. A telephone consultation felt unsatisfactory. It is frustrating to see requests for additional resources when basic service standards do not appear to be being met.

Struggling to get through on the phone

It is consistently difficult to secure an appointment at this practice. The phone lines are frequently unavailable, and when contact is finally established, there are typically no available slots remaining.

Phone queue system could be improved

I always visit this practice for myself and my family. The clinical staff are really professional and genuinely care about their patients. They are very kind and helpful, and we've had excellent experiences with the team. The only downside with this practice is that the telephone system could be improved, and sometimes appointments are fully booked.