Eastgate Medical Group

Couldn't get appointment when calling today

Called in today to speak with a clinician regarding some chest discomfort I've been experiencing. While not severe, I felt it would be prudent to have it assessed. Unfortunately, I was informed that there were no available appointments and was asked to contact the practice again tomorrow. I was disappointed by the lack of availability for same-day consultations.

Staff were dismissive and unhelpful with prescriptions

The staff members displayed an unfriendly demeanor. The clinical team appeared to lack understanding of medication management and relevant clinical expertise. There were concerns about whether allergies and sensitivities were properly considered when prescribing. This practice may not be suitable for those seeking reliable pharmaceutical care.

Rushed appointment and unhelpful reception staff

The practice felt rushed and the staff came across as unwelcoming. I ultimately decided to seek private care instead.

Felt genuinely listened to about my concerns

There are many great and wonderful compassionate healthcare professionals practicing at this medical group. One particular clinician stands out to me as being excellent, having really helped me so much with my ongoing health concerns. I will always be very grateful for their kindness and compassion. Thank you 👍

Appointment ran behind schedule

There was a slight wait as the appointment ran behind schedule.

Reception team made the difference during tough times

Throughout 2021, I found myself needing to visit my GP practice more frequently than usual. Given the challenging circumstances of the global pandemic, I anticipated there might be some delays and a possible decline in service quality. However, my experience proved otherwise. Despite operating under considerable strain, the practice has delivered exceptional care. Every member of the team, from those at reception through to clinical staff and pharmacy services, has been impressive. I feel fortunate to have access to such a high-quality healthcare service locally.

Impossible to reach by phone before ten

The service provided to patients in this area is quite poor. When calling after 10am, callers are directed to try again the following day at 8.30am. However, attempting to reach the practice at 8.30am proves difficult, as the phone lines are consistently busy and difficult to access. This leaves patients with the choice of repeatedly attempting to call or abandoning the effort altogether. Due to personal commitments including school responsibilities and work, it is not feasible to spend extended periods trying to get through. After three weeks of attempting to book an appointment through the standard procedure, it has been impossible to connect with the practice. Today alone, multiple attempts were made between 8.30 and 10am without success. This is not an isolated incident. Living in this area has resulted in a situation where accessing medical care through the practice feels unattainable, leading to reliance on hospital services instead. The experience with this medical centre has been so frustrating that it is a factor in considering relocating to another area.

Couldn't get through on the phone

Unable to reach anyone by telephone despite multiple attempts to contact the practice. When reception staff finally answered, they were unhelpful and unable to provide an appointment. Frustrated with the overall quality of service received.

Reception was dismissive when asking about vaccination

My spouse and I received our initial vaccinations approximately twelve weeks prior to writing this review. Following guidance from the NHS website and relevant health authorities, my spouse contacted our general practice to enquire about scheduling our second dose. Unfortunately, the response we received was dismissive in tone. We were simply told that we would be contacted when appropriate, and the receptionist appeared eager to end the conversation. My spouse had further questions but felt unable to ask them, as the receptionist did not seem willing to provide additional information. Neither of us have made contact with the practice over the preceding year and have adhered to all relevant health guidance throughout this period. Given the circumstances at the time, we felt that seeking clarification about our vaccination schedule was a reasonable request, particularly as we were taking our health responsibilities seriously. When we contacted the local hospital instead, we received a notably different experience. The receptionist there was helpful and explained that whilst they could not offer medical advice, we would be contacted as soon as vaccines became available. They explained that they preferred to wait until vaccine supply was confirmed before inviting patients for their second dose.

Busy surgery but staff really listened

Excellent practice. Like most medical facilities, there can occasionally be longer waiting times during busy periods, but I have consistently received good care.

Reception staff attitude needs serious improvement

The reception staff did not provide the level of service I expected. There appeared to be a disconnect between the attitude experienced at the front desk and what I would hope the clinical team would be aware of.

Receptionist didn't check before sending me away

Attended to collect a prescription and was informed by reception staff that it was available at the pharmacy without verifying this information first. Upon visiting the chemist, the prescription was not there, requiring a lengthy walk back to the surgery despite experiencing respiratory difficulties. The prescription had actually been printed several days prior and was at the surgery throughout. The experience felt dismissive and lacked proper assistance. The service appeared careless and unhelpful.

Reception staff weren't helpful or honest

The receptionist's service fell short of expectations and there were concerns about the reliability of information provided.

Lucky to have a practice that listens

I have consistently been satisfied with the care I have received and consider myself fortunate to have access to a medical practice that delivers a good standard of service.

Early arrival meant prompt appointment time

Arrived ahead of schedule and was seen by the nursing staff promptly. Received excellent care throughout the visit.

Reception team always goes the extra mile

The clinical team and support staff, including those in administrative and dispensary roles, have consistently demonstrated courtesy and professionalism throughout my interactions with them. They have regularly shown a willingness to provide additional assistance and care whenever needed. This positive experience has been consistent over the many years that my family and I have been patients at this practice. Thank you to everyone involved.

Long wait times at reception desk

The service felt rather sluggish.