Happy House Surgery

Friendly reception and efficient booking process

One of the finest medical practices in the area👍

Quick appointment with no booking hassles

The appointment lasted twenty minutes and ran on schedule, with an efficient check-in and departure process. There have been no difficulties in securing appointments when required.

Receptionist's dismissive attitude let the surgery down

Called the surgery today regarding a concern with the pharmacy at Pennywell regarding my medication. I have been a patient here for many years, and giving a one star rating is something I rarely do. However, my initial experience with the receptionist today was disappointing. I felt their demeanor was unwelcoming and dismissive, with an attitude that suggested they viewed certain patients as less important than others. I believe a change in approach would be beneficial. I hope the management team takes this feedback seriously and prioritises listening to patient concerns alongside other operational matters. I was so frustrated by the situation that I felt compelled to contact my consultant at Sunderland Royal. Their secretary was extremely helpful and made calls on my behalf, which really should not have been necessary, but it demonstrated the level of care and support I received from that team.

Felt genuinely listened to and respected

My first appointment with the GP was very positive. They demonstrated kindness and professionalism throughout. They took time to listen attentively and provided clear explanations. I appreciated their supportive approach and the respectful, empathetic manner in which they engaged with me. I would recommend this practice.

Impossible to get an appointment here

The service at this practice is disappointing. Appointment availability is a significant issue, as I experienced a lengthy wait of several weeks before being able to see someone. The staff interactions were not pleasant, and I would not suggest this practice to others.

Practice didn't record my allergy concerns

I have experienced several significant concerns during my visits this year, including being prescribed medications that triggered allergic reactions, feeling dismissed when raising issues, having difficulties with record-keeping, experiencing communication that I found misleading, and facing resistance when requesting referrals for imaging investigations. These cumulative issues have left me with serious doubts about the quality of care I have received.

Couldn't get appointment when urgently needed

Disappointing experience at the surgery. After undergoing specialist laser treatment in London, I was informed that no appointments were available for four weeks to provide follow-up care or issue a sick note. A previous healthcare professional had indicated that long-term sick notes could not be provided, yet when no appointments became available, this suddenly changed with a different staff member. My hospital discharge documentation noted a heart condition affecting me, and I was aware that my twins also have cardiac concerns, but again there were no appointments available for appropriate follow-up care. Being 27 weeks pregnant with twins and being advised to call back the next day regarding a potential heart issue felt inadequate. This situation was very frustrating.

Morning appointment slots disappear within minutes

It's a real scramble to secure a morning appointment here. You need to be ready and waiting right at opening time or you'll miss out. One minute past and you're already deep in the queue with nothing available. When staff are uncertain about what's causing your symptoms, they seem to accept it rather than pursue further investigation. I'm not sure if this reflects the wider NHS experience, but it feels quite frustrating. If your condition worsens, the level of support available appears limited.

Reception helpful, but appointment felt rushed and unprepared

I attended an appointment that had been scheduled for me, but the clinician appeared unfamiliar with the purpose of my visit. They mentioned having difficulty reviewing my medical history due to the volume of correspondence on file. This meant they lacked awareness of my situation going in. They were reluctant to address more than one concern, citing the standard appointment duration as a constraint—despite my having experienced multiple significant health issues. They seemed unaware that I had undergone a surgical procedure and remained unclear about this even after I explained it several times. I felt there was a lack of compassion shown towards patients during the consultation. The reception team, however, were excellent and very helpful.

Friendly staff and appointments always on time

Outstanding medical practice with a welcoming and supportive team. I have attended numerous appointments and they consistently run on schedule.

Staff were genuinely helpful and kind

Excellent team members

Receptionist helpfulness made all the difference

I switched to this practice after experiencing difficulties reaching my previous surgery. The change has been truly striking. The reception team are friendly and genuinely supportive, and there are no issues getting through when I call. My repeat medications arrive promptly. My only regret is not making the move earlier.

Dismissed concerns about pregnancy sickness medication

I felt dismissed by the medical team when requesting medication for severe pregnancy-related nausea. I was advised on the day of my request that medication should not be necessary at my stage of pregnancy (approximately seven months). Given my documented history of severe nausea in previous pregnancies, which had required medication and multiple hospital visits for rehydration, I found this response unhelpful and insensitive. Although the medication was eventually provided, I was troubled by the apparent disregard for my established medical background. I have subsequently been asked to change practices at an advanced stage of my pregnancy because I declined to alter a review that reflected a genuinely distressing experience.

Nostalgic memories of a cherished place

I have many cherished and positive recollections from when this was a residential home and the kind family who resided there. Life brings changes, but I am determined not to let those memories be diminished by circumstances beyond my control. I believe all those connected to this place are genuinely compassionate individuals, and the warmth that once existed within those walls continues to support their journey forward. Wishing everyone well.

Friendly staff who genuinely care about patients

I have been a patient at this practice for over a decade and have found nothing to criticise. The team members are welcoming and consistently make an effort to ensure patients receive attentive care.

Dismissed and misdiagnosed for over a year

I felt dismissed for an extended period when concerns were attributed to psychological causes rather than investigated further. A neurological condition was eventually identified, but I have experienced significant delays in accessing appropriate treatment due to not being believed initially. Antidepressants were repeatedly offered as the primary solution at each visit, despite my reservations. Whenever my diagnosis is discussed, I feel directed away from the practice and encouraged to seek care elsewhere. There have been issues with lost documentation and referrals being misdirected or sent to unsuitable services. The administrative and clinical handling of my case has been deeply frustrating and has fallen short of expectations. The nursing staff have been genuinely supportive and helpful throughout. Other members of the team have not provided the same level of care. This experience has been distressing and has had a lasting impact on my confidence in healthcare.

Doctor didn't call back when promised

Called last week after my partner experienced concerning side effects following a recent prescription. I was assured a callback would come by mid-afternoon that same day, but five days have now passed without contact. This situation led to a hospital visit, and when I rang back the following morning, I was informed that appointment availability was extremely limited due to staffing constraints. It feels as though you need to be in a critical condition to secure a consultation at this practice.

Helpful support for carers at this surgery

I believe this is the finest GP practice I have ever attended. As someone in a caring role, the support I received was exceptional.

Receptionists brilliant but rushed appointments disappointing

The receptionists are excellent, and the nursing and medical staff are genuinely attentive and reassuring. However, the experience has deteriorated recently. During a recent visit, I was informed that my appointment would be limited to ten minutes and that I could only discuss one matter, which made me feel quite uneasy given that I have multiple health concerns. While I was previously satisfied with the practice, I am now considering looking elsewhere for my care.

Appointment access difficult and unhelpful advice given

The practice appears reluctant to offer appointments. I waited several weeks before being seen, only to be advised that the treatment I needed would need to be pursued privately. My ear issue had persisted for an extended period, and I was informed that this particular procedure is no longer available through the NHS, with the only suggestion being to seek private care. This left me questioning the value of NHS services when they seem unable to address certain health concerns. Additionally, when attempting to book an appointment, I found the reception staff to be unwelcoming and dismissive, making the process feel discouraging rather than supportive.