Patient Experience Summary

Feedback reveals a mixed picture of service quality at the practice. Appointment availability remains a significant challenge, with patients consistently reporting difficulty securing slots despite calling at opening times, leading to lengthy phone waits and redirects to out-of-hours services. Communication gaps persist around prescription management, referrals, and service changes, with some patients experiencing medication delays or receiving unclear guidance. Reception experience varies considerably, with some staff praised for courtesy and helpfulness whilst others are described as dismissive or abrupt. Phone line accessibility during peak hours continues to frustrate patients seeking timely access.

Positive feedback highlights the clinical competence and compassionate care provided by many clinicians, who demonstrate attentiveness and thorough assessments. Several patients commend the team's friendliness, professionalism, and willingness to go beyond expectations, particularly during difficult health situations. The practice environment is generally noted as clean and well-maintained, and digital services such as NHS App messaging and online check-in are appreciated by those who use them. However, concerns about inconsistent service quality and staff variability suggest that improvements in appointment capacity, communication consistency, and reception training would enhance the overall patient experience.

Appointment

38.45 %
Poor

Reception

52.18 %
Average

Cleanliness

72.50 %
Great

Care

58.76 %
Average

Respect

55.64 %
Average

Seen on time

42.89 %
Poor

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BW

Blue W. Google 6 months ago

Rating

Average!

Prescription issues and poor communication let them down

I previously left a positive review several years ago regarding the care received. However, my recent experience has been disappointing, particularly around obtaining repeat prescriptions. I have found myself without medication on multiple occasions, which has been concerning. Communication could be improved, especially when there are delays or when issues are resolved without notification. While some reception staff are pleasant, interactions can be inconsistent. The process for obtaining medication has felt unnecessarily complicated, particularly given changes to service locations. Additionally, I was contacted by the practice following my review through both a phone call and a message via their online service.

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MA

Mehak A. Google 6 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Easy to book same-day appointments by phone

I've found my experience with this practice to be very positive overall. The team members are approachable and welcoming, and it's straightforward to arrange same-day appointments simply by making a phone call. The digital services available are also quite useful for matters that aren't time-sensitive.

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JC

James C. Google 6 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Reception staff helpful, but doctor dismissive and didn't listen

I only leave one star so I can submit a review. The reception team here are genuinely helpful and make a real effort to assist patients, however I have had a disappointing experience with one of the clinicians I've seen in person and spoken with by phone on several occasions. This clinician appeared dismissive of my concerns and did not seem to have reviewed my medical history prior to our appointments. During consultations, I felt unheard as my attempts to explain my symptoms were not properly acknowledged. Following these visits, I found myself needing to contact NHS 111 for support. Additionally, another healthcare professional has raised concerns about the standard of care I received. My family and I feel we deserve better and have therefore decided to transfer to a different practice.

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AT

Andrew T. Google 9 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Staff were professional and genuinely friendly

On each occasion that I have visited this practice, I have found the team members and clinicians to be both courteous and approachable.

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MA

Mos A. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Felt listened to and well supported

I had a very positive experience and am pleased with the service received.

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JJ

Ju J. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Reception staff were genuinely helpful and kind

The reception team provided excellent service, demonstrating friendliness and helpfulness throughout my visit. The clinical staff member I saw was particularly kind, caring, and compassionate in their approach. I'm very grateful for the support provided by everyone at the practice.

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SL

Street L. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Reception staff were dismissive and unhelpful

Unfriendly medical staff

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KA

Kathryn A. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Receptionist handled hospital correspondence request well

I contacted the surgery by phone today and spoke with a member of the reception team regarding a previous hospital appointment I had attended. I was requesting any correspondence the surgery had received relating to this appointment. The receptionist was very polite, professional and helpful, promptly providing all the information I needed via email. I am very grateful for their assistance.

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MC

Michael C. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Impossible to get same day appointments for baby

I found the appointment system frustrating and was unable to secure same-day slots for my child. The response I received was consistently that availability was not there, with suggestions to contact alternative services after lengthy waiting periods on the phone. I felt the service fell short of my expectations and my trust has been significantly affected.

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SH

Stephen H. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Felt genuinely cared for rather than just a number

Since becoming a patient at the local medical centre last year, I've found the practice to be refreshingly welcoming—attentive, compassionate, and genuinely supportive. During a period when I faced unexpected health difficulties, I was treated with considerable kindness and understanding. As someone who works within the NHS myself, it's been reassuring to experience the same standard of attentive care that I aim to deliver in my own role. It's often the smaller gestures that have the greatest impact. In an environment where patients can sometimes feel like they're simply passing through, this practice has made me feel truly valued and has demonstrated a genuine willingness to assist. Continued best wishes for the future. With warm regards

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SM

Sarah M. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Receptionist helpfully directed me to pharmacy

I contacted the surgery seeking guidance, and a member of the reception team asked me several questions before providing information about receiving treatment at the pharmacy rather than requiring a doctor's appointment. This was beneficial as I didn't need to take time away from work. Additionally, I was sent a text message informing me about a digital service that allows me to consult with a doctor.

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AC

Ava C. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Staff were helpful with my paperwork request

Had a really positive experience with the team at the practice. The staff were extremely accommodating and attentive to my enquiries, and they were able to provide me with the documentation I required.

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JS

Josimara S. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Impossible to get through on the phone line

Attempting to schedule an appointment for my mother has been quite frustrating, with the phone line remaining unavailable since early morning. This experience has been rather disappointing.

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SC

Sarah C. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Staff listened and put us at ease

Attended an appointment today with my daughter regarding concerns following her surgical procedure. The staff were pleasant and welcoming, and the clinician was kind and supportive. I felt reassured by the consultation and was informed that I could contact the practice if any further issues arise.

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GV

Gintaras V. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Helpful staff who actually listen

Consistently demonstrated helpfulness and respectfulness throughout my interactions.

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AA

Ada A. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Impossible to get through on the phone

It is extremely difficult to obtain an appointment at this practice. I have followed their guidance by calling from opening time, however by the time my call was answered, all available slots had already been allocated. I have experienced this issue repeatedly on multiple occasions. Due to the persistent difficulty in securing appointments, I am considering registering with a different GP practice as the current arrangement does not appear to be meeting my needs.

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LK

Little K. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Kept questioning why I visit so often

I attended an appointment this morning and found the service to be unavailable. The staff repeatedly questioned why I visit frequently, which I felt was inappropriate and invasive. Overall, I did not feel respected during my visit.

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DR

Denis R. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick appointments and well-organised practice

My time at this practice has been very positive, with appointments generally available without excessive delays. The team demonstrates good organisation and operates efficiently. There can be periods when phone lines are busy and waiting times increase during peak hours, but overall the service is of a high standard.

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LC

Lisa C. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Same day appointment and felt properly listened to

A very positive visit. Received an appointment the same day and the clinician gave me a thorough examination. They patiently listened to my concerns and I never felt rushed. Thank you.

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8W

8silliw W. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Reception staff were dismissive and intrusive

Unable to secure an appointment at this practice. The reception experience was disappointing overall. The staff at the desk appeared dismissive and asked overly detailed questions about the reason for my visit, which felt unnecessarily invasive.

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About the GP

  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 01706 366135
  • Argyle Street Medical Ctr 141 Argyle Street Heywood Lancashire OL10 3SD

Patient Experience Summary

Feedback reveals a mixed picture of service quality at the practice. Appointment availability remains a significant challenge, with patients consistently reporting difficulty securing slots despite calling at opening times, leading to lengthy phone waits and redirects to out-of-hours services. Communication gaps persist around prescription management, referrals, and service changes, with some patients experiencing medication delays or receiving unclear guidance. Reception experience varies considerably, with some staff praised for courtesy and helpfulness whilst others are described as dismissive or abrupt. Phone line accessibility during peak hours continues to frustrate patients seeking timely access.

Positive feedback highlights the clinical competence and compassionate care provided by many clinicians, who demonstrate attentiveness and thorough assessments. Several patients commend the team's friendliness, professionalism, and willingness to go beyond expectations, particularly during difficult health situations. The practice environment is generally noted as clean and well-maintained, and digital services such as NHS App messaging and online check-in are appreciated by those who use them. However, concerns about inconsistent service quality and staff variability suggest that improvements in appointment capacity, communication consistency, and reception training would enhance the overall patient experience.

Appointment

38.45 %
Poor

Reception

52.18 %
Average

Cleanliness

72.50 %
Great

Care

58.76 %
Average

Respect

55.64 %
Average

Seen on time

42.89 %
Poor
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