Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience at this medical practice, with clinical care consistently praised but significant operational challenges affecting access and service delivery. Medical staff, including physicians and nursing professionals, receive strong recognition for their clinical expertise, compassionate approach, and professional demeanor. Patients frequently highlight positive interactions with the care team and report feeling supported throughout their treatment. However, appointment availability emerges as a persistent concern, with multiple patients describing difficulty securing timely slots, restrictive booking windows, and lengthy waiting times both for appointments and in-clinic visits. Reception experience is similarly polarised, with some patients reporting courteous and helpful interactions while others describe dismissive, condescending, or discourteous behaviour from front desk staff.
Booking system inefficiencies present a major access barrier, with patients reporting that appointment slots release at specific times, fill rapidly, and cannot be reserved in advance despite requests for future dates. Some patients experienced being redirected to alternative services or told no appointments were available without apparent attempts to find solutions. Waiting experience issues include significant delays between confirmed appointment times and actual consultations, sometimes exceeding an hour, with limited communication or explanation provided. Pharmacy service quality varies, with some patients noting efficient prescription processing while others reported unprofessional conduct and disengagement from pharmacy staff.
Despite these operational challenges, many patients express appreciation for the practice's efforts to manage high patient volumes and recognise the broader pressures facing NHS services. The contrast between clinical excellence and administrative difficulties suggests that while medical care quality remains strong, improvements in appointment accessibility, booking system design, reception courtesy consistency, and waiting time management would significantly enhance the overall patient experience.
Appointment
Reception
Cleanliness
Care
Respect
Seen on time
Respond to patient reviews
Monitor satisfaction trends
Generate CQC evidence reports
Claim & Manage ProfileShows how often this practice responds to patient reviews and feedback.
Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience at this medical practice, with clinical care consistently praised but significant operational challenges affecting access and service delivery. Medical staff, including physicians and nursing professionals, receive strong recognition for their clinical expertise, compassionate approach, and professional demeanor. Patients frequently highlight positive interactions with the care team and report feeling supported throughout their treatment. However, appointment availability emerges as a persistent concern, with multiple patients describing difficulty securing timely slots, restrictive booking windows, and lengthy waiting times both for appointments and in-clinic visits. Reception experience is similarly polarised, with some patients reporting courteous and helpful interactions while others describe dismissive, condescending, or discourteous behaviour from front desk staff.
Booking system inefficiencies present a major access barrier, with patients reporting that appointment slots release at specific times, fill rapidly, and cannot be reserved in advance despite requests for future dates. Some patients experienced being redirected to alternative services or told no appointments were available without apparent attempts to find solutions. Waiting experience issues include significant delays between confirmed appointment times and actual consultations, sometimes exceeding an hour, with limited communication or explanation provided. Pharmacy service quality varies, with some patients noting efficient prescription processing while others reported unprofessional conduct and disengagement from pharmacy staff.
Despite these operational challenges, many patients express appreciation for the practice's efforts to manage high patient volumes and recognise the broader pressures facing NHS services. The contrast between clinical excellence and administrative difficulties suggests that while medical care quality remains strong, improvements in appointment accessibility, booking system design, reception courtesy consistency, and waiting time management would significantly enhance the overall patient experience.
Appointment
Reception
Cleanliness
Care
Respect
Seen on time
Filter
Anonymouse one year ago
Poor!
Appointment
BadReception
BadCleanliness
AverageCare
AverageRespect
PoorSeen On Time
BadUnacceptable front line service
Telephoned the practice while suffering suspected heart attack. Told twice no appointments available. Asked to speak to someone about it but 'no appointments'. Went to another practice where I was treated with kindness and heart attack confirmed. Treated successfully in brief hospital stay. Later advised by hospital to see GP to review cardiac medication. Yes, you've guessed it! No appointments and no solution.
R T.
one year ago
Average!
Long wait and mixed-up schedule
The scheduling process at this facility needs serious improvement. I arrived precisely at the time specified in my confirmation text, only to discover my actual appointment was much later. After waiting around 35 minutes (being patient and understanding that delays happen), I was informed I'd need to wait another 40 minutes. No explanation or apology was provided, just an alternative slot later that day, which itself involved another 20-minute wait. This experience significantly disrupted my work commitments. Anyone planning to visit this medical practice should definitely allocate extra time and bring something to occupy themselves during the inevitable lengthy wait.
Hugh H.
one year ago
Excellent!
Caring doctors in our village surgery
Despite the immense challenges facing the entire National Health Service, I consider myself fortunate to be a patient at this charming local medical practice. From the nursing staff to the physicians and patient support personnel, they have consistently demonstrated compassion and expertise. It's important to recognize that patients also play a crucial part in this healthcare partnership, a fact that many tend to overlook.
Alan E.
one year ago
Excellent!
Friendly staff despite long wait times
A fantastic group of professionals who genuinely strive to excel. Friendly and welcoming staff. Scheduling can be challenging on occasion, but that's pretty standard for any medical practice!
Jane T.
one year ago
Excellent!
Quick and caring doctor visit
Got exceptional service from Dr Eaves, who addressed my medical concern swiftly and professionally. I'm grateful for the prompt attention and hopeful that my health problem has been effectively resolved. Sincere thanks.
Chloe S.
one year ago
Excellent!
Friendly staff who truly care about patients
I've been a patient at this medical practice for a couple of years now, and I have absolutely no complaints. The staff are incredibly impressive, consistently displaying the utmost professionalism, courtesy, and respect. They truly deserve much more recognition for their daily dedication and commitment. These healthcare professionals consistently demonstrate an extraordinary level of care that goes far beyond standard expectations for their patients.
Karin H.
one year ago
Average!
Unhelpful receptionist ruined my medical visit
I recently interacted with an extremely abrupt and discourteous front desk staff member. While I'll refrain from identifying her, I've previously experienced issues with her demeanor. She appears to believe she possesses medical expertise and can unilaterally determine the urgency of my health concern. When presented with an appointment slot three weeks in the future, I questioned the timing, only to be met with a sharp demand of whether I wanted the appointment or not! In contrast, the other administrative staff are consistently supportive and compassionate. However, this specific individual seems ill-suited to handle the demanding nature of her role.
Yvonne H.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Caring team made our health journey better
Truly exceptional healthcare professionals across the board, from the front desk team to the medical personnel. We are deeply grateful for the outstanding care and support provided to my husband, myself, and our entire family.
Douglas C.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Caring doctors who know their stuff
Every interaction here is consistently outstanding, with physicians who are personable and genuinely supportive across multiple medical areas. I consistently experience compassionate care and a constructive perspective on potential treatment approaches. Moreover, they demonstrate initiative by scheduling preventative health screenings at suitable times.
Phil T.
2 years ago
Bad!
Worst service I've ever encountered
The level of ineptitude, lack of professionalism, and sheer indolence is truly remarkable. It's utterly mind-boggling that customers are supposed to shell out money for such a complete disaster. One can only hope they've maintained their professional liability coverage.
Donna B.
2 years ago
Bad!
Frustrating phone wait for vague appointment slot
The staff are courteous, but the new appointment booking process is utterly impractical. I spent half an hour on hold just to secure an appointment, only to be told it would be sometime between 9am and 6pm - with no specific time. This completely disrupts my professional commitments. As a self-employed life coach, I can't simply clear my entire day's schedule, which carries significant emotional and financial consequences for my work. It is completely unacceptable how service users like myself, who depend on this critical service, are being treated. While I'm not typically one to raise complaints, I believe it's crucial that we collectively voice our concerns and demand better treatment.
Claire L.
2 years ago
Bad!
Impossible to schedule a simple checkup
The medical staff here are excellent, but securing an appointment is incredibly challenging. I just tried scheduling and found it impossible to get a non-emergency slot outside school hours for my child within a reasonable timeframe. Today's standard appointment slots for the week of 27 May were released at 2 pm and completely booked by 4 pm - which coincidentally was the earliest time I could call. Even more frustrating, I can't book the next available appointment for the week of 3rd July (and we're currently only in April) until they release slots next Tuesday at 2 pm - again, during a time when I'll be in class. I'll then have to cross my fingers that any appointments remain when I'm finally able to call. The system is nonsensical - why can't patients simply book the next available appointment, even if it's two months in advance?
Nicki H.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Quick help from Michael yesterday
Swift initial assessment and assistance yesterday, the system performed as expected. Special thanks to Michael.
Philippa L.
2 years ago
Bad!
Not worth the money at all
Let down completely.
Charli C.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Doctor who truly listens and cares
Rarely does one find a medical professional who seamlessly blends outstanding clinical knowledge with authentic compassion, but Dr. Ince at Empingham Medical Surgery embodies this rare combination. Right from our initial consultation, her attentive and considerate manner immediately helped me feel comfortable and reassured. Dr. Ince provides unhurried consultations, carefully listening to patient concerns and ensuring comprehensive answers to every query. Her exceptional talent for translating complex medical concepts into accessible language is truly impressive. Furthermore, her treatment recommendations are not only highly effective but meticulously customized to each patient's unique circumstances, showcasing her profound commitment to individualized healthcare. The entire support team at Empingham Medical Surgery also merits recognition for their professional and warm approach, establishing a welcoming environment that begins the moment you arrive. It's abundantly clear that patient comfort and satisfaction are fundamental principles for this medical practice. What truly distinguishes Dr. Ince is her deeply empathetic approach. Her genuine concern for patient wellbeing is unmistakable, and this quality cultivates a profound sense of trust and security throughout treatment. Her diligent follow-up demonstrates an unwavering commitment to patient care, consistently monitoring treatment progress and making adjustments as needed. For individuals seeking a physician who combines medical excellence with heartfelt compassion, I cannot recommend Dr. Ince at Empingham Medical Surgery more strongly. Her remarkable expertise, paired with her warm and understanding nature, creates an exceptional healthcare experience. My sincere gratitude to Dr. Ince for her outstanding service and meaningful impact on patient health and lives.
Sophie O.
2 years ago
Bad!
Rude receptionist ruined my whole visit
The customer service was absolutely terrible. The representative who answered the call displayed a complete lack of professionalism and basic courtesy when interacting with a client. Moreover, the facility consistently appears to be overwhelmingly crowded and chaotic.
Sarah B.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Compassionate care from an amazing doctor
My interaction with the entire medical staff, especially one specific female physician, has been truly exceptional. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the remarkable professionalism and compassionate care I received, which means a great deal to me.
Loz B.
2 years ago
Bad!
Receptionist crushed my daughter's anxiety
I've encountered appalling customer service from the reception desk multiple times. Their attitude is consistently dismissive and abrupt. It seems one particular staff member is the main culprit, though a couple of employees are genuinely pleasant. Initially, I noticed the problematic staff member was in a senior role, so I refrained from filing a complaint. Recently, my daughter mustered the courage to call and book an appointment, which was challenging given her anxiety. Disappointingly, the receptionist was unprofessional, engaging in side conversations while my daughter was speaking. Despite carefully explaining her reasons for seeking an appointment, the staff member continued chatting with colleagues, barely paying attention. When my daughter requested an appointment, she was offered a student appointment, which she didn't understand. Instead of explaining, the receptionist condescendingly made her feel unintelligent. To make matters worse, after my daughter clarified she wanted a doctor's appointment, the receptionist repeated the question about the appointment's purpose. This treatment is completely unacceptable and disrespectful!
Jacqui T.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Quick and caring staff during checkup
Completely top-tier and expert care throughout the surgical procedure. The staff demonstrated exceptional skill and attentiveness from start to finish, making the entire experience smooth and reassuring.
Kirpa K.
2 years ago
Bad!
Monica's terrible attitude ruined my visit
Monica at the dispensary is an absolute embarrassment to the entire medical facility. Her attitude is incredibly offensive! I strongly advise against obtaining your prescription from this location!!! Her lack of basic courtesy is appalling!! Utterly repulsive!