Patient feedback reveals a deeply polarised experience at this practice, with significant challenges in appointment access and reception experience contrasting sharply with consistent praise for clinical care. The most persistent concern centres on booking systems, with patients reporting difficulty reaching the practice by phone, lengthy waits for callbacks, and rapid depletion of available appointment slots. Communication barriers are frequently cited, including phone lines that remain engaged, automated systems that disconnect calls, and reception staff described as dismissive or unhelpful when contact is eventually made. These access difficulties appear particularly acute for patients seeking urgent consultations, with some reporting waits extending weeks or being redirected elsewhere.
When patients do access clinical care, the feedback becomes notably more positive. Doctors are consistently described as thorough, compassionate, and attentive listeners who provide clear explanations and demonstrate genuine concern for patient welfare. Several practitioners receive specific commendation for their clinical expertise and empathetic approach. The nursing and pharmacy teams are similarly praised for professionalism and support.
A significant disconnect exists between reception and clinical experiences. While medical professionals are frequently highlighted as excellent, reception staff interactions are commonly characterised as discourteous, bureaucratic, or obstructive. Patients report feeling like obstacles rather than people seeking help, with some describing anxiety about contacting the practice. The practice environment itself receives mixed assessments, with some noting welcoming atmospheres while others describe it as unwelcoming or inaccessible. Recent changes including new booking systems and staff recruitment appear to have improved some experiences, though appointment availability remains a widespread concern.
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Patient feedback reveals a deeply polarised experience at this practice, with significant challenges in appointment access and reception experience contrasting sharply with consistent praise for clinical care. The most persistent concern centres on booking systems, with patients reporting difficulty reaching the practice by phone, lengthy waits for callbacks, and rapid depletion of available appointment slots. Communication barriers are frequently cited, including phone lines that remain engaged, automated systems that disconnect calls, and reception staff described as dismissive or unhelpful when contact is eventually made. These access difficulties appear particularly acute for patients seeking urgent consultations, with some reporting waits extending weeks or being redirected elsewhere.
When patients do access clinical care, the feedback becomes notably more positive. Doctors are consistently described as thorough, compassionate, and attentive listeners who provide clear explanations and demonstrate genuine concern for patient welfare. Several practitioners receive specific commendation for their clinical expertise and empathetic approach. The nursing and pharmacy teams are similarly praised for professionalism and support.
A significant disconnect exists between reception and clinical experiences. While medical professionals are frequently highlighted as excellent, reception staff interactions are commonly characterised as discourteous, bureaucratic, or obstructive. Patients report feeling like obstacles rather than people seeking help, with some describing anxiety about contacting the practice. The practice environment itself receives mixed assessments, with some noting welcoming atmospheres while others describe it as unwelcoming or inaccessible. Recent changes including new booking systems and staff recruitment appear to have improved some experiences, though appointment availability remains a widespread concern.
Appointment
Reception
Cleanliness
Care
Respect
Seen on time
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Martin H.
one year ago
Bad!
Frustratingly slow and unresponsive customer service nightmare
Completely impossible to connect with any representative, they claim they'll call in 10 days and if you accidentally miss that call, you're pushed back another 10 days. I spent an entire month just trying to reach someone, who then scheduled an appointment two weeks out - totaling six weeks of waiting. The elimination of the well-man clinic feels like a significant step backward.
Kohl S.
one year ago
Bad!
Worst medical clinic experience ever nightmare
I'm absolutely frustrated beyond words! For an entire week, I've been attempting to secure a GP appointment due to potential skin cancer concerns, and I've contacted the clinic four separate times. During the initial two calls, the staff were completely unhelpful and uninterested in assisting me. On the third day, the clinic staff finally revealed that I wasn't registered, which would normally require a 48-hour process - yet they miraculously completed my registration in just one minute when I mentioned my previous unsuccessful calls. This clearly demonstrates they're capable of swift action but choose to be deliberately unhelpful. After registering me, they scheduled an appointment at Firdale medical centre for 1:30pm on a Saturday, which is nonsensical since the clinic is supposedly closed. They attempted one phone call at 10am while I was working, making it impossible to answer. When I tried returning their call, I was greeted by an answering machine stating the clinic was shut. Apparently, I'm expected to possess supernatural intuition about the Firdale clinic's mysterious Saturday hours, despite their online information and telephone system indicating otherwise. The whole experience has been absolutely maddening!
Amy C.
one year ago
Excellent!
Exceptional healthcare with compassion and understanding
After a string of disappointing encounters with my former healthcare provider, switching to Oakwood Medical Centre has been a breath of fresh air. The level of support I've received while navigating recent health challenges has been exceptional. From the moment I arrive, every staff member - whether at reception, the nursing team, or during blood tests - demonstrates genuine compassion and professionalism. Dr Singleton stands out for her remarkable ability to translate complex medical information into clear, accessible language that makes perfect sense to someone without a medical background. Her explanations and thoughtful analogies have helped me understand my condition far better. As a result, I now feel my health is being comprehensively managed, which has significantly improved my daily functioning both professionally and personally. I am truly grateful for the care I've received at Oakwood Medical Centre.
Lauren Y.
one year ago
Bad!
Heartless clinic abandons sick child in need
Sent my sick child home with a strep A diagnosis, claiming they're overcrowded. Completely unacceptable.
Vicki Y.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Fantastic healthcare with caring and attentive staff
I've switched my daughter and myself to this practice, and it's a significant improvement over our previous medical center. The level of care is exceptional, and the staff are incredibly welcoming and personable.
Clare P.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Exceptional healthcare with compassionate and caring professionals
Absolutely outstanding service. I cannot emphasize enough how incredible the entire medical team was - from the welcoming reception staff to the compassionate nurses and doctors, they were all phenomenal and incredibly supportive.
Mrwoolleyscience M.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Fantastic healthcare that truly cares for families
It's remarkable how varied individual perspectives can be about a single location. Upon joining this medical practice, I'm filled with admiration and deep appreciation for their care towards my family. We consistently manage to secure a spot on the triage list, whether through their online system or by phone if the digital queue is full. The medical staff are top-tier professionals who are incredibly competent and action-oriented. While the National Health Service is undeniably under significant strain, I firmly believe they are performing exceptionally well under challenging circumstances.
James M.
2 years ago
Average!
Frustrating medical practice with glimmers of hope
Physicians are generally excellent (Dr Singleton deserves particular praise), but as others have noted, the front desk staff frequently fall short, often bordering on discourteous. I understand economic challenges exist, but I've experienced repeated bureaucratic obstacles, including a distressing incident involving my 12-year-old daughter's severe eye-area eczema infection - where the receptionist flatly denied even a telephone consultation and redirected me to an optician, who appeared bewildered by my presence. Advanced appointment scheduling for non-urgent yet important medical needs has become impossible. Instead, patients must navigate the chaotic 8am scramble for same-day slots, competing against individuals with potentially more pressing medical requirements. Can this approach truly be sustainable? Edit: Feb 2024 I'm updating this review, as recent developments indicate the practice recognizes previous shortcomings and is actively working to address them. As before, the medical professionals remain outstanding, provided one can secure an appointment. A new online booking system has been introduced, and while my initial attempt encountered issues, I'm willing to attribute this to initial implementation challenges. The system's long-term effectiveness remains to be seen. Additionally, it appears new reception staff have been hired who demonstrate politeness and helpfulness, markedly different from the previous attitude that likely contributed to numerous negative reviews.
Lynne E.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Compassionate care from amazing doctors and staff
I've consistently found the physicians at this medical practice to be excellent, which makes the negative online feedback quite puzzling. Each doctor carefully listens to patients and provides thorough explanations. The reception staff manage an incredibly demanding role yet remain unfailingly courteous and supportive. ☺️
B W.
2 years ago
Bad!
Terrible medical practice with uncaring staff and management
Regrettably, this medical practice is fundamentally flawed. Their approach, from leadership to ground-level staff, prioritizes business interests over patient care and compassion. I'm currently recovering in a hospital bed following a complicated ankle surgery. During this challenging night, pain and discomfort are compounded by the additional stress this practice has recently inflicted. Their communications—via text, email, and phone—have been consistently cold and unsympathetic. While I acknowledge the necessity of changing my GP surgery after moving, I believe healthcare providers should demonstrate flexibility for patients actively undergoing critical medical treatment. Despite having recent ankle surgery and pending hip scan results and specialist referrals, I received an aggressive text threatening immediate removal from their patient list the day before my operation. Such actions have caused me unnecessary emotional distress. Any positive encounters here are likely to be short-lived; eventually, the practice and its staff will inevitably disappoint you. It seems they lack genuine empathy and are fundamentally unsuited to healthcare work. Their approach appears more focused on dismissing patients as hypochondriacs rather than providing meaningful support. Telephone access is virtually impossible, and in-person interactions typically involve discourteous reception staff. My strongest recommendation is to seek registration elsewhere if you have any alternative options.
R C.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Exceptional healthcare with caring and efficient team
This medical practice boasts an exceptional staff and physician. Their recently implemented digital platform has been a game-changer, significantly more convenient than the previous telephone scheduling method - and even prior to this upgrade, I've consistently received the necessary support for both myself and my kids. The negative feedback posted here seems completely disconnected from the quality care my family, neighbors, and friends have encountered - we genuinely feel fortunate to have such a reliable local healthcare team that always comes through when assistance is required.
Select T.
2 years ago
Bad!
Frustrating medical system ruins patient experience
Getting an appointment at this GP is an absolute nightmare. The new online booking system is completely useless - I've tried logging in early morning and repeatedly checking when it claims no slots are available, only to be told to go online when I call. The NHS seems to have completely broken down, and I'm convinced you could get medical care faster in a remote African village than with this terrible system. It's like they're deliberately making it impossible for patients to see a doctor.
Thomas D.
2 years ago
Excellent!
Unexpectedly amazing medical centre with great service
From the instant I arrived until my departure, my initial visit to this Centre was thoroughly enjoyable. The reception team was delightful and accommodating. Even though they appeared swamped with work, their demeanor remained consistently cheerful throughout my time in the waiting area. The welcoming atmosphere persisted during my consultation with the physician, and I successfully received the necessary medical care. I'm not someone who frequently writes reviews, and I'm not suggesting other testimonials are incorrect, but my personal encounter was markedly different from the current low 2.4-star average rating.
Danielle H.
2 years ago
Bad!
Frustrating healthcare system leaves patient helpless
I reached out due to my ongoing cardiac concerns, experiencing irregular sinus and atrial fibrillation rhythms. Attempting to schedule a consultation proved impossible, with same-day appointments seemingly vanishing instantly at 8:10. This system is completely unacceptable. Patients should have the ability to book medical consultations in advance. Their next available telephone appointment isn't until January 16th, and when I tried calling, the line was unresponsive. What options do I have?! I'm not seeking emergency room treatment since I'm feeling stable, I simply need professional guidance from my general practitioner!!!!!
Gary C.
2 years ago
Bad!
Terrible healthcare with rude and unhelpful receptionists
This medical facility is an absolute disaster, managed by irritable front desk staff who yell and lecture patients !!! They act like gatekeepers, deciding whether you're worthy of speaking to a physician, when you're the one who knows you're unwell!!!! 😡😡😡😡😡😡 After being trapped in a condescending queue and treated like a misbehaving child, I'm frustrated that I'm sick and just want medical attention, not to be interrogated about my condition. The reception team needs a serious attitude adjustment - they should focus on supporting patients instead of making them feel like unwelcome nuisances when they're seeking help !!!!!!! STEER CLEAR OF THIS PLACE
Sean S.
2 years ago
Bad!
Frustrating healthcare nightmare with no hope
This situation is an absolute embarrassment. While the NHS's chronic underfunding bears some responsibility, the local service is simply unacceptable. Securing an appointment is practically impossible (truly! Slots vanish within mere minutes of opening, turning scheduling into a frantic telephone lottery!) and it appears they're deliberately obstructing community healthcare. One phone staff member demonstrates genuine compassion, but the remainder seem utterly indifferent. A sincere inquiry: how can patients receive proper medical attention in a system so fundamentally broken?
Ian J.
2 years ago
Bad!
Worst medical practice ever terrible service
Impossible to reach by phone as the line is perpetually busy. When I visited the reception to schedule a GP consultation, I was informed of a staggering 5-week wait for an in-person appointment. Their policy dictates calling on the same day, with no provision for advance or urgent bookings. After enduring an extensive recorded message maze, I finally connected with a staff member, only to be told all appointments for the day were exhausted within the first 30 minutes. Their advice? Try calling again on the day. Absolutely ridiculous.
Christopher O.
2 years ago
Bad!
Terrible service masked by decent medical staff
Unquestionably the most dreadful medical practice I've ever encountered. The initial hurdle involves navigating through unbearably rude, dismissive, and arrogant front desk staff who seem to relish making patients feel insignificant. Beyond these gatekeepers, the actual medical professionals are surprisingly courteous and competent. However, one must first endure a gauntlet of interactions with these receptionists who apparently believe they're running the entire healthcare system. Despite numerous online complaints highlighting this issue, the practice manager appears indifferent, suggesting this toxic behavior is tacitly accepted or perhaps even intentionally perpetuated. The entire experience feels like an unnecessary ordeal before receiving any actual medical care.
Lee H.
2 years ago
Bad!
Frustrating medical centre with mixed doctor experiences
The medical centre's phone system is incredibly frustrating, constantly engaged, and even when you finally get through, there are no available appointments. While some of the doctors are truly excellent, the reception staff appear completely indifferent and seem eager to dismiss patients without proper care or attention.
Mason F.
3 years ago
Poor!
Terrible healthcare with unhelpful and dismissive staff
I regrettably cannot recommend this medical practice. My encounters have been consistently disappointing. Repeatedly, I've faced frustration. Telephone communication is nearly impossible, and when contact is finally made, either by phone or in person, most staff members appear discourteous and seem intent on creating obstacles. Additionally, my general practitioner has been ineffective in addressing my medical condition, showing little commitment to understanding its root cause. One practitioner even provided an incorrect diagnosis, apparently choosing the most convenient explanation. I consistently experience significant anxiety regarding any interaction with this practice. I desperately want to change healthcare providers but find myself unable to do so.