Leadgate Surgery

Felt unsupported and faced unnecessary barriers

I had a very negative experience at this surgery. I felt the standard of care and professionalism was lacking, and I did not receive the support I needed. Instead, I encountered barriers and obstacles that made my situation more difficult. I found the overall experience to be among the poorest I have had at a medical practice.

Thorough check-up and quick results back

Can't complain went to see the clinician who was a lovely person with a couple of issues, received a complete medical check, every blood test was completed with results back very quickly, a hospital appointment was arranged that day and a further appointment at the practice was also made, can't fault this experience in the slightest BRILLIANT.

Practice feels different since recent staff changes

This surgery has declined noticeably since some of the previous doctors left. The practice doesn't feel quite the same anymore.

Quick prescription service from phone consultation

The surgery and associated pharmacy provided excellent service. A clinician contacted me by telephone in the late morning and arranged a prescription, which was subsequently delivered by the pharmacy in the afternoon. I was very satisfied with how quickly everything was handled. Thank you.

Phone lines never answered when calling

The pharmacy has been difficult to reach by telephone. As older patients who rely on prescription delivery services, we find it frustrating that calls go unanswered. This means we have to arrange transport to collect our essential medications in person, which is inconvenient for us. When we enquired about this, we were informed they are too busy to answer calls. Additionally, the staff interactions could be more welcoming and friendly towards customers.

Long-term patient with quick appointment access

I have been a patient at this practice for many years and have consistently had a positive experience. Appointments have always been readily available, typically either on the same day or the following day.

Staff member shouted at me in car park

Wouldn't even give it a 1 star. A member of staff came out and shouted at me in the car park. Their behaviour was completely unacceptable and unprofessional.

Good communication made the appointment straightforward

Excellent experience with outstanding communication and genuinely supportive assistance throughout.

Couldn't reach surgery or get prescription filled

Attempted to contact the practice repeatedly without success. When a prescription was eventually provided, I encountered difficulties obtaining the medication from multiple pharmacies.

Phone-only approach leaves patients without proper support

If I could give zero stars I would. If you have mental health concerns, complicated medical needs, or chronic pain conditions, it is strongly advisable to seek care elsewhere. You would receive better healthcare from an unconventional practitioner contacted remotely than from this practice. My interactions have been conducted entirely by telephone, as the practice appears to prioritise avoiding in-person appointments. Patients appear to be withdrawn from medications with minimal support provided. Existing medical conditions are disregarded as though they do not matter. One clinician in particular demonstrates a harsh, dismissive manner and employs an approach that contradicts the patient-centred care principles the NHS advocates for. Regardless of personal history, background or ethnicity, the treatment appears consistently poor across all patients, which at least means the experience does not feel discriminatory. Since relocating to the area only recently, every local conversation mentioning this practice has included recommendations to use the alternative surgery instead. The reputation is decidedly negative, and I remain registered here only because my repeat prescriptions were cancelled with minimal discussion. I am unable to safely transfer to another practice without risking medication withdrawal without proper medical supervision, which has previously occurred with this surgery. My complex mental health needs, which had remained stable for two decades before moving, have deteriorated significantly due to the care received here. The outcome of this situation remains uncertain, but I would strongly urge others to avoid this practice to prevent experiencing similar difficulties.

Reception staff dismissed health exemption request

Attempted to register and request an urgent appointment, but encountered difficulties at the reception desk. Was asked to wear a mask despite having a health-related exemption. The clinical staff member did not appear particularly engaged and did not inquire about any underlying health conditions. As a registered disabled person, I found the lack of accessible parking facilities problematic. Would recommend considering alternative surgeries if you are seeking a more accommodating practice.

Caring staff who really listen to patients

Consistently thoughtful and professional in approach. A genuinely compassionate practice, and I am deeply appreciative of the care and support that has been provided throughout my time as a patient.

Reception staff unhelpful and dismissive

I've only given 1 star because a lower rating isn't available. The clinical staff provided no assistance whatsoever, and neither did the administrative team. The service fell well short of expectations. I'm actively seeking alternative healthcare provision elsewhere. I would not recommend this practice to others and would suggest looking elsewhere for care. I preferred the previous practitioner who was here before.

Friendly staff but impossible to cancel appointments

The clinical staff and front desk team are pleasant, however I have found the process for cancelling an appointment to be quite frustrating. I attempted to get through by phone on numerous occasions without success.

Quick phone appointment and prescription sorted

Called the practice early in the day and received a prompt callback within an hour. The clinician discussed my concerns and arranged for medication to be available at the pharmacy for collection. The entire experience was handled efficiently and professionally from beginning to end.

Helpful staff made the visit worthwhile

Excellent and supportive team

Staff smoking outside surgery in uniform

I observed two members of staff in uniform sitting on a public bench directly outside the surgery entrance while smoking and vaping. Both were wearing their work uniforms and had NHS lanyards visible around their necks. They appeared to be sitting in close proximity to one another. I found this sight quite concerning. One was dressed in a navy uniform and the other in white. Given the current emphasis on enhanced protective measures and the restrictions on face-to-face consultations, I found it contradictory and confusing to see staff members openly smoking outside the building while in full uniform. I would appreciate clarification on this matter.

Phone lines constantly busy and unanswered

Three reception staff members and three phone lines available, yet calls go unanswered? This happens even at opening time in the morning. I'm aware there's no queue system in place, so it's unclear why the phones aren't being picked up. That said, the reception and clinical team are genuinely pleasant and helpful. This appears to be more of a systems issue than anything else.

Friendly reception staff made all the difference

The staff members are consistently pleasant and friendly in their interactions. They are wonderful people to deal with.

Quick appointments and professional staff throughout

Excellent service throughout. The staff consistently demonstrate professionalism and courtesy. Appointments are readily available without significant delays. The overall experience rivals that of a private healthcare facility.