Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience with this practice, with notable contrasts between reception and clinical care. Many patients praise the attentiveness and compassion of medical professionals, thorough consultations, and efficient appointment booking through newer online systems. However, significant concerns emerge around telephone access during stated business hours, with multiple reports of difficulty reaching the practice and long wait times to secure appointments. Reception experience is inconsistent, with some patients describing courteous and supportive staff while others report discourteous behaviour and dismissive attitudes when raising concerns.

Appointment availability and booking systems present ongoing challenges. Traditional phone-based booking appears problematic, with patients describing rapid slot depletion and call disconnections, though the newer Anima online platform has received positive feedback for faster response times and streamlined booking. Communication continuity between appointments is flagged as an issue, with some patients reporting lack of awareness of previous consultations or test results.

The practice environment is generally described as clean and well-maintained, and many patients express appreciation for the supportive healthcare team. However, concerns about responsiveness to patient issues and administrative organisation persist across multiple reviews, suggesting scope for improvement in how the practice manages patient access and communication systems.

Appointment

51.45 %
Average

Reception

48.76 %
Poor

Cleanliness

78.50 %
Great

Care

62.18 %
Average

Respect

52.89 %
Average

Seen on time

55.23 %
Average

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KK

Kal K. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Anima appointment system fails patients miserably

Since Anima's launch, securing an appointment or reaching a representative has become virtually unattainable. The current state of affairs is utterly disgraceful. The online booking process is incredibly frustrating. Previously, waiting in line was tedious, but now the digital system completely locks out users when it reaches maximum capacity, leaving everyone helpless until it becomes available again. The booking procedure urgently requires a comprehensive review and overhaul. While the staff demonstrate a willingness to assist, they are fundamentally constrained by the system's limitations.

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AD

Abby D. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Anima service transforms healthcare with swift efficiency

I recently tried the Anima online service and I'm thoroughly impressed. After completing their web form, I received a response in under 60 minutes and secured an appointment for the very next day. In over two decades, I've never experienced such a seamless booking process. I'm thrilled to have eliminated the frustrating experience of being stuck on hold for nearly three-quarters of an hour, only to be told no slots are available. This digital approach is definitely the future of healthcare - allowing physicians to efficiently prioritize and allocate appointments to patients with genuine medical needs. Dr. Thomas was exceptional; compassionate, welcoming, and genuinely invested in discussing my concerns thoroughly.

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ZZ

Z Z. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Worst receptionist ever julie destroys customer experience

Julie at the front desk is hands down the most repulsive and discourteous individual I've ever encountered!! I cannot comprehend how an organization would employ someone with such an abhorrent demeanor! A completely revolting human being in every conceivable way!

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JJ

Juan J. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Rushed and dismissive healthcare leaves patient suffering

I'll aim to be concise. The journey to secure an appointment dragged on for more than a year. Once I finally got in, I felt completely disregarded and poorly attended to (my entire consultation lasted barely 10 seconds). I was hastily prescribed steroid cream and dismissed. Consequently, my medical issue has not only deteriorated but has now spread to my face and other body areas. This ranks as one of the most disheartening medical encounters I've experienced. It appears their primary objective is to rapidly cycle patients through, with zero genuine concern for individual care. Truly disappointing. The worsening of my condition has now triggered significant anxiety and depression, leaving me feeling hopeless about any potential health improvement.

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MM

Mono M. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Greedy doctors exploit nhs for massive profits

Thus surgery compensates its doctors £42,000 annually yet bills the NHS £360,000 for those same doctors! I'm planning an awareness campaign outside soon to see if direct public exposure will make the doctors feel ashamed, uncomfortable, or admit their role in this systemic problem. The practice partners and management should be held responsible and potentially face legal consequences for excessive profiteering while perpetuating suffering. Anyone interested in background information or supporting the awareness efforts can reach out to me. Their dismissive approach mirrors the tactics of opportunistic politicians. I've allowed the partners ample time to explain themselves - approximately 4 months so far - and their condescending attitudes suggest they view me as an inconvenient nuisance. Their refusal to engage only reinforces my initial suspicions: they're more concerned with the 14,000 patients and the £3 million NHS payment than individual care. Notably, they continue receiving payment even when patients cannot be seen. I'm advocating for my children and future generations. Candidly, if you're new to the area, I strongly recommend seeking healthcare elsewhere, as these partners would struggle to responsibly manage additional NHS resources.

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SW

Sally W. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care from a compassionate nurse practitioner

I visited the medical facility in Great Notley this past Wednesday, December 5th. I would like to commend Jane, the Nurse Practitioner, for providing exceptional, comprehensive healthcare. Her thoroughness was evident in her proactive approach, including arranging a blood test form for a screening scheduled in January 2025.

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SH

Sarah H. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Negligent care puts patient's life at serious risk

If I could award zero points, I absolutely would! I've been a patient here for years, with consistently inconsistent service. The front desk staff are nothing short of rude and dismissive. They give conflicting instructions and then criticize you for following them. During my pregnancy, I sought help for a melanoma concern, and shockingly, the doctor never processed my "urgent" cancer referral. Now I'm facing the nightmare of potentially balancing childbirth with critical medical tests. This is completely unacceptable. When I followed up on my referral after 17 days, the reception staff greeted me with their trademark patronizing attitude. Even after the doctor admitted failing to send my referral, there's been zero urgency to expedite my case. Once I've given birth, I'm absolutely committed to escalating my complaint beyond this surgery, which clearly demonstrates utter disregard for patient welfare. They need to dramatically improve their standard of care. Do better.

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EG

Ellie G. Google one year ago

Rating

Average!

Mixed care and frustrating medical delays

Mixed experiences with this medical care. The physicians are genuinely supportive, yet I endured an excruciatingly prolonged wait of more than twelve months for a neurology consultation regarding a spinal condition, primarily due to apparent administrative indifference. The potential consequences could have been catastrophic, potentially leading to permanent paralysis through sheer professional negligence. Communication was severely lacking, with no one reaching out to discuss my MRI findings. Additionally, the front desk staff frequently display an attitude that is dismissive and patronizing. While I'm not inclined to harshly criticize the healthcare system, there is significant room for improvement in interpersonal communication and patient care approach.

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JJ

Jess J. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Heartless clinic fails new parents and their baby

The service is completely unacceptable! With a newborn child, we were denied our scheduled visit because we arrived 20 minutes behind schedule after our baby experienced an unexpected incident en route. Medical facilities should demonstrate more understanding when it comes to infant vaccination appointments, recognizing that punctuality can be challenging for parents. Now we've been forced to postpone for another three weeks, which is entirely unjust and inconvenient.

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AW

Alan W. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care from a compassionate medical team

Having been absent from the medical practice for a decade, I recently required an appointment, and I'm delighted to share that every aspect of my interaction was exceptional. From scheduling to receiving my prescription, the entire process was seamless. The staff were uniformly compassionate, attentive, and incredibly supportive. We are truly fortunate to have such an outstanding healthcare facility. I must extend my heartfelt appreciation to the remarkable Dr. Makin, who was instrumental in alleviating my concerns. From the moment I entered his consulting room, he demonstrated remarkable empathy and professionalism, effectively calming my anxieties. I am profoundly grateful for his kindness and understanding.

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DP

Dilipkumar P. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Smooth sailing through a successful medical journey

Thoroughly satisfied with the surgical procedure, which significantly surpassed my prior medical experiences

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DS

Dream S. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Dangerous doctor threatens patient safety at local clinic

A hazardous physician who commits mistakes on oncology referrals, paired with hostile front desk staff who are dismissive when patients raise issues. I am presently pursuing a formal complaint with Essex ICB because the medical practice is attempting to minimize and conceal the problematic actions of this dangerous doctor. If you or your aging family members have experienced cancer or are currently battling the disease, I strongly advise AVOIDING THIS MEDICAL PRACTICE.

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LT

Laura T. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care with compassionate medical professionals

I have absolutely no complaints about this surgical practice, as they demonstrate remarkable empathy and genuine kindness. I'm puzzled by negative comments regarding the administrative staff, since in my personal interactions, all the receptionists have been incredibly supportive and accommodating. I truly value the care I've received and am deeply thankful for their exceptional service.

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EC

Emma C. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional healthcare in a welcoming village surgery

Since relocating to the village recently, I am thoroughly impressed with this medical practice. Booking appointments has consistently been quick and straightforward, and I've invariably been called in almost immediately after arriving. The administrative and medical personnel demonstrate exceptional professionalism and are consistently supportive. Every interaction with the healthcare professionals has made me feel genuinely listened to and cared for. The premises are immaculately kept, presenting a welcoming and serene atmosphere that puts patients at ease. Continued excellence is my sincere hope for this outstanding surgery!

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AK

Arvind K. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care from a truly remarkable medical team

Every member of the staff demonstrates remarkable expertise, delivering the most outstanding service I've encountered. The front desk personnel are remarkably compassionate and responsive. The nursing professionals excel at precisely delivering medications and medical procedures. The physicians dedicate substantial time to gathering comprehensive information and conducting extensive diagnostic evaluations. They meticulously track patient progress and offer guidance for maintaining peak wellness. The bathroom areas remain impeccably sanitized. The registration process functions seamlessly, and the digital platform enables convenient access to personal health information.

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TT

Thomas T. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care for rare genetic condition needs

Highly skilled professionals who carefully addressed my unique medical needs related to 22q11 deletion. Demonstrated remarkable efficiency during the challenging Covid vaccine distribution period.

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SJ

Sue J. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional healthcare at little waltham medical center

I'm utterly perplexed by the critical reviews circulating about this medical practice. They've implemented an innovative callback system that eliminates long phone wait times, and in my experience, you receive a return call within mere minutes. Additionally, for non-urgent matters, online appointment scheduling is available. Regarding the reception staff, whom someone derogatorily called a "window witch," I've been a loyal patient for a quarter-century and have consistently found the receptionists to be courteous, compassionate, and professional - just like the doctors and nursing team. My entire social circle speaks with genuine admiration about the exceptional healthcare provided at Little Waltham. April 2024

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AF

Alex F. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Poor!

Terrible customer service at this unprofessional pharmacy

The front desk and pharmacy employees display an incredibly unprofessional demeanor, consistently disrupting conversations and showing clear signs of impatience. While attempting to communicate with the receptionist, I overheard her exasperated sigh and abrupt phone disconnection. Their customer service is notably inadequate, with excessively long wait times that further compound the frustrating experience of seeking assistance.

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CA

Carol A. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Poor!

Frustrating physio session fails to support patient needs

The physiotherapist demonstrated a clear absence of comprehension regarding my unique circumstances and medical condition. Due to my cerebral palsy, I require additional time to process and retrieve online information. What was meant to be a supportive appointment instead resulted in me feeling emotionally overwhelmed and deeply distressed.

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PT

Penny T. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Efficient and friendly healthcare service beyond expectations

Unexpectedly impressed. I had to utilize the online consultation platform to schedule a medical appointment for the first time. Remarkably, I received a callback within thirty minutes to set up the appointment, and then another call shortly after offering me a more convenient, extended consultation as I needed to discuss a specific matter with my doctor. Additionally, I contacted the pharmacy today regarding a review, and they were incredibly supportive. Overall, I'm thoroughly satisfied with the service. While the online consultation form is somewhat cumbersome, it ultimately serves its purpose effectively.

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Practice Response Rate
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About the GP

  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 01245 360253
  • Little Waltham Surgery 30 Brook Hill Little Waltham Chelmsford, Essex CM3 3LL

Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience with this practice, with notable contrasts between reception and clinical care. Many patients praise the attentiveness and compassion of medical professionals, thorough consultations, and efficient appointment booking through newer online systems. However, significant concerns emerge around telephone access during stated business hours, with multiple reports of difficulty reaching the practice and long wait times to secure appointments. Reception experience is inconsistent, with some patients describing courteous and supportive staff while others report discourteous behaviour and dismissive attitudes when raising concerns.

Appointment availability and booking systems present ongoing challenges. Traditional phone-based booking appears problematic, with patients describing rapid slot depletion and call disconnections, though the newer Anima online platform has received positive feedback for faster response times and streamlined booking. Communication continuity between appointments is flagged as an issue, with some patients reporting lack of awareness of previous consultations or test results.

The practice environment is generally described as clean and well-maintained, and many patients express appreciation for the supportive healthcare team. However, concerns about responsiveness to patient issues and administrative organisation persist across multiple reviews, suggesting scope for improvement in how the practice manages patient access and communication systems.

Appointment

51.45 %
Average

Reception

48.76 %
Poor

Cleanliness

78.50 %
Great

Care

62.18 %
Average

Respect

52.89 %
Average

Seen on time

55.23 %
Average
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