Patient Experience Summary

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

45.67 %
Poor

Reception

54.32 %
Average

Cleanliness

72.50 %
Great

Care

75.89 %
Great

Respect

58.91 %
Average

Seen on time

48.23 %
Poor

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PW

Pamela W. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and smooth prescription service

Exceptional assistance provided by Empingham Surgery. Managed to process my repeat prescription request and get it delivered from Stamford Pharmacy in just a day! Thoroughly delighted - Much appreciation.

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RM

Royston M. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Average!

Dr Ostapenko's warm patient care

Despite some negative feedback about communication, my three-year experience as a patient here has been predominantly positive. Admittedly, staff have occasionally been somewhat brusque, but everyone is entitled to an occasional off day. Regarding doctor consultations (which have become increasingly rare post-pandemic), my experience remains largely favorable. Take Dr. Ostapenko, a Ukrainian GP with an excellent bedside manner and refreshing approach, in contrast to another doctor during Covid who merely asked me to photograph a barely visible skin rash for remote diagnosis - which was frankly ridiculous. While this practice is part of the broader, dysfunctional NHS that desperately needs fundamental reform but likely won't receive it, they seem to be doing their best with limited resources. My recommendations would be to address the abysmal parking situation and develop a comprehensive strategy for managing the anticipated influx of patients from the upcoming massive housing developments in Stamford's west end and surrounding areas. The potential consequences will certainly be fascinating to observe. My final question: is there genuinely no alternative to the current chaotic appointment system? The situation remains scandalous, though admittedly not unique to this practice.

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LG

L. G. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Caring doctors in a lovely village setting

Despite the current strain on NHS services, my family and I have been thoroughly satisfied with the care provided by the Empingham team. We've experienced GP practices in London, Cambridge, and Edinburgh, and we find this location to be the most impressive. From what I've observed in other reviews, the reception staff have consistently been courteous, flexible, and compassionate when dealing with appointment availability challenges. The location offers convenient parking, is situated in a picturesque village, and the pharmacy staff are wonderfully friendly. I want to specifically acknowledge Carina and Dr. Eaves for their excellent recent care of our family. Recognizing the nationwide GP shortage, Empingham has impressively managed an extensive influx of patients from the Stamford area. While no healthcare service is without its imperfections, we consider ourselves fortunate to be patients here and deeply appreciate the team's extraordinary dedication and hard work.

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MD

Marion D. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Caring doctors made my checkup easy

The staff consistently demonstrate exceptional support and expertise, and despite the immense pressures facing the NHS, they maintain a high-quality level of care. While the system isn't flawless, it remains effective. Special recognition goes to Dr Thorpe for his outstanding interpersonal skills and compassionate approach. Sincere gratitude to the entire team at Empingham Medical Centre.

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BP

Bob P. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Waited eight months for nothing

Attempting to engage with the practice manager proved futile; a phone call in August 2022 yielded promises of updates on my concerns, yet by April 2023, nothing had changed. What they call Patient Services should more accurately be termed Patient Obstruction. In early March, I sought a doctor's assistance for an ENT referral regarding an ear problem. I was dismissively directed to Specsavers, who confirmed no wax issue and suggested I consult my GP. Subsequent attempts led to being redirected to 111, who likewise advised speaking with my GP. Ultimately, I abandoned my efforts and transferred to a different practice. The organization demonstrates profound incompetence across operational, administrative, and communication domains.

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SA

Sarah A. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Receptionist made me feel terrible today

After my interaction with the medical practice's front desk staff, I found them condescending, invasive, and discourteous. Their demeanor completely lacks any semblance of empathy or compassion, giving the clear impression they are indifferent to patients' concerns - the pandemic appears to have dramatically degraded their professional approach. They could seriously benefit from a comprehensive course in basic customer care and interpersonal communication.

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DG

Dominic G. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Rude staff turned away with ear infection

Called the medical practice regarding an ear infection, and was dismissively told there were absolutely no doctor appointments available, with instructions to contact 111 or emergency services instead. For my very first attempt to see a physician, I was treated poorly, with no personal acknowledgment and zero effort to check for potential openings. This experience has completely soured my opinion of moving to Stamford, and I'm now seriously questioning my decision.

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YH

Yvonne H. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Caring staff made our visit better

Always a welcoming and supportive medical team. Continue maintaining your excellent standard of care. Your dedication is truly valued. Sandra and Robert Harrison

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DJ

Del J. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Impossible to book a doctor's visit

Scheduling an appointment here is impossible. Every time I call, they tell me to ring back the next morning at 8 am, but then the lines are constantly busy. When I try to book a routine check-up, they claim the appointment isn't available yet. The whole process has become utterly ridiculous. In response to their previous comment, I filed a complaint and was assured someone would contact me—I'm still waiting. What a complete farce.

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EH

Emma H. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Rude receptionist ruined my first impression

I attempted to register as a new patient and received a follow-up call days later from an extremely irritated staff member. They harshly criticized me for incomplete registration paperwork - which I acknowledged was my error and promptly apologized for. However, their communication was shockingly condescending and hostile. A simple form should never justify treating someone disrespectfully. The customer service was absolutely unacceptable, especially for someone trying to access healthcare services. As a result of this unprofessional interaction, I chose to withdraw my patient registration.

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DH

Daniel H. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Frustrating dr thorpe appointment booking mess

The receptionist has completely changed their policy, no longer permitting direct doctor appointment bookings. In late May, Dr Thorpe instructed me to schedule a follow-up in a month, but when I contacted reception, they claimed no appointments were available because his schedule wasn't entered into their system. Multiple subsequent calls revealed his rota remained unupdated. When I explained I needed to see Dr Thorpe as requested, the receptionist questioned whether I genuinely required medical attention. I inquired how doctors can apparently take holidays with a week's notice, yet the staff seem unaware of next month's schedule and haven't input the rotas. Their operational approach seems entirely dysfunctional. The pharmacy staff are unprofessional and disengaged. They persistently chat and laugh among themselves while supposedly serving customers, creating significant delays. Frustrated, I switched to Lloyds Direct for prescription delivery. However, Lloyds was out of stock and returned my prescription to the NHS system. Empingham pharmacy proved unhelpful, citing procedural constraints, though Rutland late-night pharmacy was surprisingly accommodating.

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DA

Deborah A. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Caring doctors who really know me

Exceptional medical professionals. I truly appreciate being their patient compared to other practices nearby. They've consistently been supportive and familiar with my needs, which makes me feel completely at ease seeking their guidance and care.

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CB

Chris B. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and reliable delivery

Satisfactory

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BB

B B. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Caring doctors who've helped us for years

We've been patients at this medical center for four years, and I cannot speak highly enough of their service. The entire team demonstrates exceptional professionalism and genuine compassion. The administrative personnel are remarkably competent and thoughtful, and their prescription management is consistently precise and reliable. This practice truly stands out in delivering outstanding healthcare. My sincere appreciation to the entire team!

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CP

Christina P. Google 6 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Friendly staff made my day better

The service here consistently impresses me, with compassionate and supportive personnel who truly go above and beyond. Working in public healthcare is challenging, but they handle it with remarkable professionalism and care. Keep maintaining this fantastic standard! 😁

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PB

Philip B. Google 6 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and caring medical team

An exceptionally skilled group of medical professionals, from physicians to nursing staff and administrative personnel. Considering their immense patient volume, we find absolutely no cause for criticism. As an added convenience, their in-house pharmacy allows for immediate medication pickup.

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PN

Paul N. Google 6 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Friendly doctors and clean clinic for decades

The medical team here is exceptional, and the personnel are top-notch. My wife and I have experienced nothing but excellent care over the past two decades. We feel incredibly fortunate to have access to such a professional, immaculate, and supportive healthcare facility. Sincere gratitude to every single staff member for their outstanding service.

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KS

Katherine S. Google 6 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Friendly doctors helped my nervous toddler

I've encountered nothing but positive interactions at this practice - the physicians Eaves and Thorpe deliver exceptional medical attention, and the nurse practitioners were remarkably skilled during my daughter's somewhat challenging pre-school immunization appointment. Additionally, the front desk personnel have been consistently welcoming in our interactions. While we aren't frequent visitors to the surgery, I wanted to share this balanced perspective. I would certainly encourage others to consider this healthcare provider.

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JR

James R. Google 7 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Years of caring and quick help

Exceptional care and support from a dedicated team of medical professionals who consistently provide prompt, attentive service with genuine compassion and effectiveness throughout my long-standing relationship with this healthcare provider.

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EH

Evan H. Google 7 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Worst doctor's visit ever

Terrible customer service. The staff came across as extremely discourteous and completely unhelpful. This kind of treatment makes you want to avoid seeking medical care altogether, as you're made to feel utterly insignificant and disrespected.

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Patient Experience Summary

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

45.67 %
Poor

Reception

54.32 %
Average

Cleanliness

72.50 %
Great

Care

75.89 %
Great

Respect

58.91 %
Average

Seen on time

48.23 %
Poor
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