Hirsel Medical Centre

Impossible to book an appointment here

This practice has been disappointing to visit. Obtaining an appointment is extremely difficult, as the available slots seem to fill up immediately when calling at the suggested time. The booking system appears inefficient and frustrating to navigate. Overall, the experience has felt like a waste of effort.

Long waits and impossible to book appointments

The practice operates at a frustratingly slow pace and provides disappointing service. Availability for appointments is extremely limited and difficult to secure.

Can't get appointments despite early calls

There is virtually no possibility of securing an appointment at this practice, regardless of when you attempt to book. The appointment system appears to have undergone modifications, with the expectation being that non-urgent cases should be offered alternative dates. However, this surgery does not seem to follow this approach. Conversely, obtaining certain preventative treatments is straightforward, though these come at a cost.

Impossible to book appointments, long waits for calls

It is extremely challenging to secure an appointment at this practice. The booking process requires calling at opening time, and even then, a telephone consultation may be offered with an uncertain waiting window throughout the day. This system is quite frustrating. Additionally, there appears to be limited mental health support available for those with significant mental health concerns, with patients often being redirected rather than receiving direct assistance.

Long phone queues make appointments hard to get

The clinical staff I have encountered over the years have been excellent. I have experienced no problems with the administrative team during my recent interactions with the practice. All team members have been understanding about the current shortage of available appointments. However, the limited availability of appointments and the booking system are areas where this practice falls short. I have become increasingly frustrated in my attempts to reach a GP, frequently spending considerable time in the telephone queue only to find that no slots were open.

Receptionist attitude made getting appointments difficult

I have been a patient at this practice since childhood and have consistently experienced excellent care from the clinical staff. However, I have found the reception service to be significantly lacking. I have attempted to contact the practice repeatedly over the course of a week without success in securing an appointment. Additionally, I was advised by NHS 111 to request a referral to hospital, which I communicated to reception. The receptionist responded dismissively to this information and ended the call abruptly. Given that I require a referral to proceed with hospital care, this situation has been frustrating. I would suggest that potential new patients carefully consider their options before registering with this practice.

Impossible to book an appointment here

The practice frequently appears to have availability issues, making it difficult to secure appointments through standard booking methods. There are concerns about the accessibility of services.

Receptionists undermine otherwise good doctors

I have been a patient at this practice for well over a decade, and previously I would have rated it very highly. However, my experience has declined noticeably in recent times. The clinical staff continue to provide excellent care, though obtaining an appointment can be challenging. Unfortunately, the front desk team appears to have changed, and I have found their approach to be problematic. They seem to overstep their role and lack the interpersonal skills necessary for their position. If the work environment is causing dissatisfaction, it may be worth reconsidering whether this role is the right fit. Basic courtesy and professionalism should be standard. I cannot recommend this practice based on my recent visits. The appointment system frequently shows full availability despite significant numbers still waiting to be seen, and patients often experience lengthy waits. The interactions at reception have been dismissive and unhelpful on several occasions, which has significantly detracted from what was once a positive experience.

Long phone queues make appointments impossible

I have been a patient at this practice for many years and feel compelled to share my experience. The appointment system has been frustrating, as calling early does not seem to guarantee availability, and I have found it difficult to secure slots or receive timely callbacks regarding test outcomes despite being advised to book appointments. The reception team's approach to patient interactions has left much to be desired. When I attempted to raise concerns, the process became lengthy and complicated, and I felt my attempts to lodge feedback were not handled appropriately. Additionally, I requested access to my medical records with an expected timeframe, but they were not provided within the stated period, which caused inconvenience as I required them for a specific purpose. Based on my experience, I would encourage others to carefully consider their choice of practice.

Online consultations made appointments much easier

Excellent healthcare professionals. I have been a patient at this practice since childhood, as have my family members, and I genuinely cannot fault them. I understand the challenges faced following the pandemic restrictions, and we are still managing with the reduced availability of in-person appointments. However, the remote consultation service has been incredibly helpful and has made a real difference. Thank you to all the staff here for your continued dedication and support, which is truly valued.

Phone receptionist was unnecessarily rude

I called the practice today and spoke with a member of staff. I found the interaction to be quite discourteous, and I was disappointed by the tone of the conversation. In a role that involves regular patient contact, I would have expected a more considerate and respectful approach.

Receptionists need better training and support

Only put 1 star because you can't give zero. The clinical staff are amazing. However, I found the reception team to be somewhat unhelpful, as they often seemed to dismiss concerns rather than properly address them.

Finally found a practice that listens

I have needed to switch medical providers on a couple of occasions in the past, and I am genuinely pleased with my current choice. The practice has demonstrated considerable understanding and provided excellent support throughout my care. I would strongly encourage others to consider this practice.