Patient Experience Summary

Feedback reflects a mixed experience with significant variation in service quality across different areas. Vaccination services and emergency care have been consistently praised for their professional and efficient delivery, with reception and clinical staff frequently commended for courtesy and compassion during these appointments. However, appointment access remains a substantial concern, with patients reporting persistent difficulty reaching the practice by phone, lengthy waits for available slots, and challenges navigating online booking systems. Reception experience is inconsistent, with some patients describing helpful and welcoming interactions whilst others report dismissive or unhelpful attitudes. Administrative issues including medication supply gaps and processing delays have been noted, alongside concerns about responsiveness to patient concerns and the quality of clinical assessment in some cases.

Several patients have highlighted a perceived decline in service standards over time, particularly regarding appointment availability and accessibility. The shift towards online consultation systems has created barriers for some patients, especially those less comfortable with digital platforms. Communication and courtesy from reception staff varies considerably, and some patients report feeling unsupported when raising concerns or attempting to lodge complaints. Conversely, many patients value the clinical expertise and compassionate approach of certain practitioners, and some have had positive experiences with same-day appointments and efficient online consultations.

The practice demonstrates strong organisation in delivering specific programmes such as immunisations, and several patients have expressed gratitude for responsive emergency care. However, the combination of phone line accessibility issues, variable reception experience, and inconsistent appointment availability suggests systemic challenges that affect overall patient confidence in accessing routine care.

Appointment

35.67 %
Poor

Reception

38.45 %
Poor

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

52.18 %
Average

Respect

42.89 %
Poor

Seen on time

44.23 %
Poor

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RR

Ray R. Google 2 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Staff made me feel genuinely listened to

The team demonstrated a welcoming and encouraging approach throughout my visit.

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BF

Bob F. Google 2 months ago

Rating

Average!

Long wait times but eventually seen

It's acceptable if you're prepared for a wait.

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GL

Gemma L. Google 3 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Reception staff could be more helpful

The reception staff can be dismissive when they think no one is watching. There is one clinician who genuinely listens and understands when something is wrong, but the others seem indifferent. I experienced swelling in certain areas and was informed I would need to wait several weeks before being able to discuss pain management options with a healthcare professional, which felt frustrating given the lack of understanding shown. The overall approach felt impersonal and lacking in compassion. This has not been a satisfactory experience at this practice.

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LR

Lee R. Google 3 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Online booking system left me stranded

I attempted to schedule an appointment by phone but was directed to use the online system instead. Unfortunately, the online booking platform was not functioning properly for me, preventing me from either booking an appointment or requesting a callback. The reception staff were unable to assist further and reiterated that I needed to complete the booking online. Due to my inability to access either appointment method, I ended up attending accident and emergency for what could have been a straightforward consultation, which was frustrating as I was unable to see my GP or arrange a telephone consultation.

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KE

Keith E. Google 4 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick response to my online consultation

Excellent experience with the online consultation service. I received a prompt response within a short timeframe and was provided with both a specialist referral and a prescription that was ready to collect locally. Very efficient process overall.

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GB

Gracie B. Google 5 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Couldn't get weekend appointment when needed

I'm experiencing significant discomfort with my ear and am struggling to access care. The practice is closed on weekends, and since today is Saturday, I cannot get an appointment until Monday morning at 8:30. I'm in considerable pain and feel quite helpless about what steps I can take to manage this situation in the meantime. I would really appreciate some guidance on what I can do to help myself until I'm able to see someone.

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RC

Roshni’s C. Google 5 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Reception dismissed urgent online consultation results

I found the service to be extremely disappointing and would not recommend it. The practice appears to prioritise their own capacity over patient needs. Earlier this year, I required an urgent blood test but experienced a significant delay of several months before being seen. More recently, when I experienced health concerns with persistent symptoms, I used their online consultation system which indicated I needed urgent attention based on my responses. I was advised I would receive a response the same day, but instead received a message stating they were at capacity and directing me to seek urgent care elsewhere. This experience felt inadequate and frustrating.

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DO

Dritan O. Google 6 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Appointment booking didn't match who I saw

I am a private patient who attended this GP practice for the first time today. I had specifically requested an appointment with a particular clinician, and the confirmation message indicated this would be the case. Upon arrival, however, I was seen by a different healthcare professional instead. This clinician had previously treated my son and provided a diagnosis that I felt was inaccurate at that time. During today's appointment, I described my current symptoms in detail, and was told I was experiencing an allergic reaction — despite having no history of allergies. I believe my symptoms are more consistent with a common cold and chest discomfort, but the clinician concluded that everything was fine and attributed it to an allergy. I found this approach to be unsatisfactory. I did not feel my concerns were properly heard, given appropriate weight, or thoroughly investigated. I felt the examination was insufficient for my needs. I would like to know whether there is a practice manager or senior leadership I could speak with, as I was disappointed by the standard of care I experienced during this visit.

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KB

Kathryn B. Google 7 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Staff were dismissive and unhelpful throughout

This surgery has not met my expectations and I am considering finding alternative care elsewhere. I found the overall experience with staff to be disappointing. If it were possible, I would rate it lower than one star.

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O(

Og (. Google 7 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Felt genuinely listened to and cared for

This healthcare professional is by far the best I have ever encountered in my personal opinion. Without going into detail, they clearly know their job and genuinely care about their patients. Please never leave!!

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SA

Shakil A. Google 8 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Online booking made everything easier

The practice has improved significantly with the shift to online services. The experience has been enhanced and the team members are very pleasant.

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AO

Aidan O. Google 8 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Long waits and dismissive staff attitude

This practice exemplifies broader concerns about healthcare accessibility for working individuals and resource management within the system. I would advise caution to anyone considering attending here. The clinical staff appeared to lack proficiency and demonstrated poor interpersonal skills during interactions. Additionally, appointment delays of around twenty minutes beyond the scheduled time were experienced.

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TH

Terri H. Google 8 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Receptionist rudeness led to hospital visit

The receptionist was unhelpful and dismissive, making it difficult to speak with a doctor. This led to a visit to the emergency department with my child. Although the receptionist did eventually follow up, by that point the hospital had already provided the necessary care. I am considering changing practices as I feel the standard of care for young patients at this surgery is unacceptable.

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KT

Kelly T. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Receptionist rudeness has let the practice down

This practice was once excellent with both clinical staff and reception team members who were genuinely helpful. Unfortunately, that standard appears to have declined. The reception staff now come across as unwelcoming and dismissive. My daughter contacted the surgery this morning regarding a referral that had been directed to an incorrect hospital department. I mentioned in the background, as my daughter had her phone on speaker, that it seemed unnecessary for her to have to submit another online consultation when the initial referral should have been sent to the appropriate department from the start. The receptionist's manner during this call was unhelpful and curt. Overall, the quality of service at this practice has noticeably deteriorated.

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رر

ريان ر. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Reception staff made a real difference to my visit

Request to have the front desk staff member who works during morning hours reassigned to this position.

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SS

Shelley S. Google one year ago

Rating

Poor!

Felt dismissed and disrespected during appointment

I have decided to change GP practices after a considerable period of time, as I felt uncomfortable during an appointment due to remarks that were made to me in the presence of my child.

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PL

Pat L. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Appointment booking through third-party app frustrating

Unable to book appointments through the online system as none are currently available. All communication with the surgery regarding appointments, tests, and consultations goes through a third-party application rather than the NHS service directly. The appointment allocation system is limited, with slots assigned rather than selected, and further contact is needed if the allocated time is inconvenient or if a preference for a particular clinician is required. The practice appears to have declined from its previous standard, which is disappointing given its former reputation. The current service level is considered inadequate.

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AP

Alan P. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Stuck in a loop between online services

I have been unable to speak with a doctor due to difficulties at the reception stage. The process involves being directed from the NHS app to an external service and then back to online platforms, only to be told to visit the medical centre in person to complete registration. As an older person who finds digital systems challenging, I find this approach frustrating and inefficient. Several others I have spoken with share this view. The overall experience has felt unhelpful and ineffective.

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SA

Saheed A. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Reception staff were friendly and welcoming

The reception area provided a pleasant experience.

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CC

Cuddy C. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Staff were helpful and responsive to needs

Over the years, my elderly relative has been seen by multiple clinicians at the practice. The service has consistently been good with timely responses when required, and I have always found the team to be supportive and professional within their scope of practice. If circumstances were different, I would wish for more clinicians with the same approach and dedication to be available across all surgeries.

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About the GP

  • Verified GP
  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 0191 5679179
  • Millfield Medical Group Millfield Medical Centre 63-83 Hylton Road Sunderland SR4 7AF

Patient Experience Summary

Feedback reflects a mixed experience with significant variation in service quality across different areas. Vaccination services and emergency care have been consistently praised for their professional and efficient delivery, with reception and clinical staff frequently commended for courtesy and compassion during these appointments. However, appointment access remains a substantial concern, with patients reporting persistent difficulty reaching the practice by phone, lengthy waits for available slots, and challenges navigating online booking systems. Reception experience is inconsistent, with some patients describing helpful and welcoming interactions whilst others report dismissive or unhelpful attitudes. Administrative issues including medication supply gaps and processing delays have been noted, alongside concerns about responsiveness to patient concerns and the quality of clinical assessment in some cases.

Several patients have highlighted a perceived decline in service standards over time, particularly regarding appointment availability and accessibility. The shift towards online consultation systems has created barriers for some patients, especially those less comfortable with digital platforms. Communication and courtesy from reception staff varies considerably, and some patients report feeling unsupported when raising concerns or attempting to lodge complaints. Conversely, many patients value the clinical expertise and compassionate approach of certain practitioners, and some have had positive experiences with same-day appointments and efficient online consultations.

The practice demonstrates strong organisation in delivering specific programmes such as immunisations, and several patients have expressed gratitude for responsive emergency care. However, the combination of phone line accessibility issues, variable reception experience, and inconsistent appointment availability suggests systemic challenges that affect overall patient confidence in accessing routine care.

Appointment

35.67 %
Poor

Reception

38.45 %
Poor

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

52.18 %
Average

Respect

42.89 %
Poor

Seen on time

44.23 %
Poor
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