Heywood Health

Appointment system left us passed around repeatedly

A couple of us attempted to book appointments over several days and were redirected multiple times between different staff members. One person received care from a clinician at the practice and was advised to consult with a GP, only to discover at the next stage that no appointments could be arranged for several weeks. The York Street location provided good service, but since the merger, the Argyle Street location appears to have experienced significant difficulties and no longer functions effectively. There is concern that the practice does not establish the nature of patients' concerns before declining to provide assistance.

Automated phone system loses appointments fast

Disappointing experience overall. The situation continues to deteriorate. Accessing appointments is extremely difficult. The automated telephone system is frustrating, and by the time you speak to someone, there are no slots available. My wife is dealing with a serious health condition. Additionally, there was an issue with her prescription being sent to an unfamiliar pharmacy when we have a preferred pharmacy much closer to the surgery that we have always used, resulting in medication not being received as expected.

Phone lines down when you need help most

Last year I experienced an issue with my vision and was informed that a referral had been sent to the eye hospital. However, when I followed up with the hospital directly, they indicated they had no record of receiving it. More recently, I was expecting a medication delivery through my pharmacy service but it failed to arrive. When I contacted the surgery to enquire about the delay, I was told that I had placed the order prematurely, though I had not been made aware of any such restriction. This left me without my prescribed medication for my back condition. I visited the surgery in person yesterday and was told they would process the request while I was there. I subsequently contacted the pharmacy and learned they still had not received anything. My attempts to call the surgery afterwards were unsuccessful as the line was unavailable. Overall, I found the level of service and communication to be quite disappointing.

Long waits and no appointments available

This practice has not met my expectations. I experienced lengthy wait times when calling and was informed that no appointments were available. I have attempted to contact the surgery multiple times this week. The practice would benefit from increased staffing levels and appointment availability to better manage patient demand.

Long wait for eating disorder support

Did not provide meaningful support for my eating disorder over a fifteen year period.

Didn't receive the professional help needed

I have found the service to be unsatisfactory. The level of professional support I receive is inconsistent.

Frustrating phone queues and same-day appointment struggles

I frequently experience long wait times on the phone only to be informed that all available slots for that day have been filled. When I do manage to book an appointment, the experience tends to be disappointing. The reception staff often suggest using the out-of-hours service instead, which makes the initial effort to secure an appointment feel rather pointless.

Impossible to book an appointment here

Terrible experience!!! It is extremely difficult to obtain an appointment at this practice. I ring regularly and either receive no response or, when someone does answer, I am simply told to call back the following day or that the matter is not classified as urgent. Absolutely unacceptable...

Impossible to book appointments without advance planning

It is extremely difficult to obtain an appointment at this practice. I was advised to call at the start of the day to try to secure a slot if one becomes available. The practice recommends booking appointments well in advance if you anticipate needing care.