Patient Experience Summary

The practice demonstrates a clear divide between clinical and reception service experiences. Physicians consistently receive praise for their clinical competence, attentiveness, and compassionate approach to patient care, with many patients reporting they feel genuinely heard and treated as individuals. The welcoming environment and courteous demeanor of medical staff are frequently highlighted as strengths.

However, reception experience emerges as a significant concern across multiple reviews. Patients report persistent challenges with appointment availability, with many unable to secure slots despite repeated attempts to book. Long waiting times when calling, inconsistent responsiveness, and unprofessional conduct from some reception staff are recurring themes. Medication management issues also feature prominently, including delayed prescription authorisation, missing items from orders, and lack of proactive communication about medication changes.

Access barriers present another challenge, with the practice's same-day appointment policy limiting flexibility for patients with work commitments or complex scheduling needs. While some patients acknowledge that booking difficulties are typical across busy practices, others describe the experience as frustrating and unsustainable. The contrast between positive clinical feedback and negative reception experiences suggests that service quality varies significantly depending on which part of the practice patients interact with.

Appointment

38.75 %
Poor

Reception

42.15 %
Poor

Cleanliness

75.00 %
Great

Care

72.50 %
Great

Respect

54.20 %
Average

Seen on time

45.00 %
Poor

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KS

Kim S. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Can't book an appointment at 8:30am

UNABLE TO SECURE AN APPOINTMENT EVEN WHEN PHONING AT 0830. INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT 111 ON EVERY OCCASION

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AR

Andrea R. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Told my ears were clear when they weren't

Had to wait half a year for an audiology appointment and suspected my ears were impacted so I booked a separate appointment to have them cleaned before my hospital visit. I was informed my ears were fine, but I expressed concern about my hearing difficulties and was told there was nothing they could offer since they appeared perfectly clear. I then visited a pharmacist who examined my ears and confirmed they were significantly blocked, offering a paid cleaning service with no available slots until the following week. I contacted your clinic for support after receiving conflicting information and asked if you could assist, but was turned away due to lack of availability and inability to accommodate me. As expected, I attended my audiology appointment today only to discover my ears are substantially blocked and I cannot proceed with treatment until they're cleared, leaving me back at square one with another six-month wait ahead. I'm truly let down by your indifference and lack of compassion regarding the effect this situation is having on my wellbeing.

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RW

Rachael W. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Staff made my appointment quick and easy

Excellent team members all around! I consistently receive prompt and courteous service whenever I visit. The scheduling system is also impressive, with shorter waits than many other medical practices I've experienced. I consider myself fortunate to be under their care.

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CM

Craig M. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Great!

Doctor actually listened to my feedback

UPDATED REVIEW Following my most recent visit, my doctor... (I've consulted with several practitioners from this clinic throughout my care and they've all been excellent) brought up the fact that he'd noticed the Google ratings haven't been particularly positive lately and spotted my review among the unfavorable ones. He politely asked if I could share my perspective and explain why I'd given a 1 star rating, which I found to be quite considerate. It's evident that the Doctors genuinely care and are open to feedback from their patients to enhance the practice, which is something I haven't encountered elsewhere. I reiterated my concerns about the front desk team, as that's genuinely the only area where I've had difficulties. I'm optimistic about seeing improvements going forward since the medical care I've received has been outstanding. ***ORIGINAL REVIEW*** I was somewhat disappointed today, and I believe it's primarily due to one individual. While certain receptionists are exceptionally helpful, others seem eager to end the call quickly—this has occurred three times now. I've misplaced my bag containing my medication, and currently I'm facing a 7-day wait before I can contact someone to resolve it. Previously, when I ran out of medication, a receptionist was able to coordinate with a Doctor over the phone to provide a replacement prescription.

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SB

Sam B. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Doctors wouldn't listen during phone call

The doctors displayed a truly repugnant demeanor and demonstrated significant incompetence in their roles. They preferred to dictate diagnoses rather than allow patients to describe their symptoms. During a telephone consultation, they refused to examine the patient in person, which nearly resulted in a life-threatening situation, yet apparently they believe they're infallible! I sincerely hope this facility gets closed down.

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JP

Jason P. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Doctors finally explained her 73-year pain

I appreciate knowing that Dr. Herrington Burn has expertise in menopause management, as when my mother was evaluated by this doctor, she received a menopause diagnosis during her 40s. Now that she's 73 years old, she continues to experience severe burning sensations in the lower area, which causes her constant pain. I would really appreciate any assistance or guidance regarding what she is currently dealing with.

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MK

Magdalena K. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Staff's attitude problem at reception

The front desk team displayed unprofessional and unwelcoming behavior...

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HM

Helen M. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

waited two hours for my controlled drug prescription

Extremely let down after waiting two hours for my prescription to be authorised, despite placing the order seven days earlier. Since it was a regulated medication that I needed to take that evening, the timing was critical. At 5:45 pm with the clinic about to close, the receptionist showed little concern and offered no assistance whatsoever. Paul, one of the nurses, was the sole member of staff who actually made an effort to support me—I genuinely appreciate that. Following an incredibly tense two-hour period, the prescription finally materialised. How did this happen???

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SS

Suzanne S. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Reception staff attitudes made me switch practices

I've just joined this medical practice and honestly, they don't deserve even a single star ... it's absolutely appalling!!! The reception team's behaviour is utterly reprehensible. Physicians are deciding to skip tests that were explicitly ordered by a hospital specialist, and then claiming you'll need to repeat them when you follow up, meanwhile the reception staff never bothered to inform me of any of this. I'd like to switch practices but I'm struggling to locate another GP locally who can handle complicated medical situations.

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AB

Adrian B. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Bad!

waited a week for results they wouldn't explain

Appalling treatment and support. When a cancer patient undergoes blood work, staff inform you there's something unusual in your results and insist you must consult a physician, yet refuse to share any details—you'll have to wait until Friday to speak with a doctor. That's a full week away. This results in seven days of anguish, worry, and emotional turmoil just for a brief five-minute conversation. Absolutely unacceptable. Clearly written by someone who hasn't experienced this ordeal firsthand.

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AF

Alex F. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Receptionists wouldn't help arrange my blood test appointment

The front desk staff display an unprofessional demeanor, and the clinic should prioritize patient welfare. When patients are instructed to contact the doctor regarding test results, appointments should be arranged promptly without unnecessary delays. Some consideration should be shown to individuals with demanding careers, and a bit more flexibility would be appreciated. Upon reflection, the reception team seems rather ineffective at their job.

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DD

Deb D. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Dr Halpin actually listens to you

Outstanding care and a wonderfully attentive medical practice. Despite being quite hectic, I genuinely appreciate visiting Dr J Halpin as she truly grasps what her patients require. She takes time to hear patients fully, rather than focusing solely on presenting complaints. This is a top-tier facility where every team member demonstrates exceptional support and willingness to assist.

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SS

Steve S. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Can't book an appointment, stuck in queue loops

Disappointing experience. I've been attempting to schedule an appointment for more than seven days. Each time I call, I'm placed seventh in the queue, and after waiting nearly half an hour, I finally speak to someone who informs me there are no available slots today. They tell me to call back at 8:30am tomorrow, despite being unable to book appointments that far in advance. This frustrating cycle happens repeatedly day after day. I'm now without my prescription medication.

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AB

Aryo B. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Doctors actually listened to my problem

Excellent experience – the physicians genuinely hear your concerns and take appropriate action. The staff was incredibly supportive and accommodating. I'm pleased with my choice to come here. The care provided is exceptional, and the front desk team demonstrates courtesy, warmth, and attentiveness at every interaction.

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JS

Jules S. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Been here ten years, still the best

Switched to this clinic about a decade ago from a different local provider, and I haven't looked back since. The entire team—doctors, nursing staff, and front desk personnel—consistently delivers exceptional care. Your practice sets a benchmark that other medical facilities would be wise to follow in terms of commitment to patient wellbeing.

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KX

Kitty X. Google 6 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Doctors here actually take their time with you

The clinic has plenty of personnel on hand and features physicians who are highly committed and exceptionally courteous.

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ZR

Ziad R. Google 9 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Doctors here actually take their time with you

The clinic has plenty of staff on hand and employs physicians who are highly committed and exceptionally courteous.

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About the GP

  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 0191 5842632
  • Herrington Medical Centre Philadelphia Lane Houghton-Le-Spring Tyne & Wear DH4 4LE

Patient Experience Summary

The practice demonstrates a clear divide between clinical and reception service experiences. Physicians consistently receive praise for their clinical competence, attentiveness, and compassionate approach to patient care, with many patients reporting they feel genuinely heard and treated as individuals. The welcoming environment and courteous demeanor of medical staff are frequently highlighted as strengths.

However, reception experience emerges as a significant concern across multiple reviews. Patients report persistent challenges with appointment availability, with many unable to secure slots despite repeated attempts to book. Long waiting times when calling, inconsistent responsiveness, and unprofessional conduct from some reception staff are recurring themes. Medication management issues also feature prominently, including delayed prescription authorisation, missing items from orders, and lack of proactive communication about medication changes.

Access barriers present another challenge, with the practice's same-day appointment policy limiting flexibility for patients with work commitments or complex scheduling needs. While some patients acknowledge that booking difficulties are typical across busy practices, others describe the experience as frustrating and unsustainable. The contrast between positive clinical feedback and negative reception experiences suggests that service quality varies significantly depending on which part of the practice patients interact with.

Appointment

38.75 %
Poor

Reception

42.15 %
Poor

Cleanliness

75.00 %
Great

Care

72.50 %
Great

Respect

54.20 %
Average

Seen on time

45.00 %
Poor
Filter

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