Old Fire Station Surgery

Wish I had moved here sooner

I moved to this surgery from a terrible practice and have been very impressed with them so far. Dr Purcell is very friendly and obviously cares about her patients. I normally phone up if I need a same day appointment and havent had any issues getting one so far, for non urgent things I use the E-Consult system which is easy to use and I typically get a response within 24 hours if I need an appointment or 2 days if its regarding a repeat prescription. All the receptionists I have spoken to have been friendly and very helpful. Most appointments do run a bit behind schedule but that seems to be because the GPs actually care about their patients and will spend longer talking through everything and focusing on the patient instead of a predetermined time slot so I have no complaints there!

Compassionate victoria shines at old fire station surgery

I typically visit St. Peter's for medical care, but occasionally find myself at the Old Fire Station Surgery when meeting with my mental health advisor or another physician. Today, I felt compelled to share my thoughts, focusing not just on the facility, but on an exceptional staff member named Victoria. Victoria exemplifies true professionalism through her demeanor, displaying remarkable courtesy, respect, and compassion—qualities that are particularly crucial for individuals navigating personal challenges. Though I'm uncertain of her tenure, I firmly believe she merits acknowledgment for her exceptional patient interactions. This is why I'm documenting my experience today, speaking not only as a patient but also as Miller Lumen, my chosen social media identity. While my original Polish name is Lukasz, I now consistently use Miller Lumen across online platforms, where I advocate for mental health, diversity, inclusion, and neurodiversity. Genuine respect and kindness should always be recognized and celebrated.

Controversial medical advice raises serious concerns

Dr Malone recently made statements on X that contradict the guidance from NHS England and NICE. I'm concerned that her personal views might potentially impact her professional medical judgment and patient care.

Great doctors but terrible prescription and booking system

The medical staff at this practice are exceptional. They are attentive, comprehensive, and genuinely care about patient treatment rather than hastily prescribing medication. HOWEVER If you, like me, plan to request prescriptions online, I strongly advise doing so AT LEAST three weeks ahead because the GP's approval process is incredibly slow. They claim approval should occur within a couple of days of submission. Additionally, their website features an eConsult that is essentially non-functional. Daily, you'll encounter a notice stating it's open from 8am-5:30pm - which is completely misleading as it never actually becomes accessible. For those attempting to secure a same-day appointment, you must telephone precisely when their lines open, or you'll endure an interminable wait that typically outlasts your original symptoms. Scheduling routine appointments seems impossible. Receptionists provide conflicting guidance, with morning staff directing you to call after lunch, and afternoon staff suggesting you return in the morning. Some internal communication would dramatically improve this situation. While I understand this is NHS-provided free healthcare, the term "healthcare" feels somewhat generous given the challenges at Old Fire Station Surgery. I don't dispute their medical expertise and recognize they're perpetually overwhelmed, but there must be a point where systemic inefficiencies are addressed.

Exceptional healthcare from caring professionals

I extend my gratitude to the Old Fire Station surgery for their exceptional care. The nurse practitioners truly stand out, demonstrating remarkable thoroughness, dedication, and professionalism. Additionally, the reception team deserves praise for their welcoming and supportive demeanor. Kudos to the entire staff for maintaining such high standards of service - continue your excellent work.

Terrible customer service that wastes your time

Endless hold times before anyone picks up, and securing a booking feels like an insurmountable challenge! When you finally manage to get in, the staff treat you with such condescension, acting as though they're doing you an immense privilege by providing their service.

Worst medical practice ever with terrible scheduling

I wish there was a zero-star rating option because this practice deserves no stars at all. Their scheduling policies blatantly discriminate against working professionals. They only provide appointment times that are convenient for them, completely disregarding patient needs and prioritizing their own financial gain. It's clear they care more about money than patient care. Essentially, urgent appointments are exclusively available to retirees and those without jobs. Working individuals can't possibly call during their rigid 8:30 or 2:00 pm time slots. When I specifically mentioned my unavailable times, they still insisted on offering me an appointment during those exact hours, which feels intentionally malicious, especially after I raised legitimate concerns about patient safety. Their behavior is unprofessional, immature, and demonstrates a petty attitude that has no place in healthcare.

Friendly gp surgery with quick appointments and care

We recently changed our general practice, and thankfully our health needs are minimal. However, when we do require medical attention with our kids, we've consistently secured same-day consultations and received excellent care. The only drawback is the increasing wait times as the day progresses - which might be more due to patients' tardiness than the clinic's management. Despite this, the waiting area is spotless, they have a dedicated space for children and nursing mothers, and the reception staff are genuinely friendly and supportive. Overall, I'm quite pleased with the practice.

Worst medical care ever avoid this surgery

If I were to suffer a cardiac emergency near this so-called 'Doctors Surgery', I implore you to transport my expiring form across the street to St. Peters, where actual medical attention might be provided. At this former Fire Station location, their standard protocol for any health concern is simply to advise patients to dial emergency services, then promptly dismiss them while resuming their social pleasantries and biscuit consumption. Steer clear of this medical facility at all costs, particularly if you are experiencing any serious health complications.

Exceptional care and compassion from start to finish

I was truly amazed by the exceptional efficiency of this surgical practice. The delightful front desk staff member was courteous and accommodating, and she followed through on her commitment to contact me promptly. The physician personally came out to attend to my aging mother, demonstrating genuine compassion and providing her with the emotional support she required. Sincere appreciation for your outstanding assistance and empathy.

Incredible healthcare team that truly cares for patients

I've visited numerous medical practices throughout my life, and this one truly stands out as the absolute pinnacle! Over the years, I've consulted with approximately 4-5 different healthcare professionals here, both for myself and my child, and without exception, each one has been extraordinarily compassionate and dedicated. Their commitment to patient care is remarkable - they consistently exceed expectations. The front desk staff are equally impressive and deserve high praise. I cannot express enough gratitude to the entire team for their exceptional service and genuine care!!!

Terrible healthcare with zero patient respect or care

The quality of care at this health centre is critically substandard. Healthcare provider-patient communication is fundamentally flawed. Attempting to contact the centre by phone is challenging, and when successfully connected, the receptionist arbitrarily decides patient prioritization without clinical expertise. Within the centre, patients are compelled to disclose personal medical concerns in the main hall, exposing sensitive health information to other patients, creating an environment of profound discomfort and compromised privacy. I experienced a significant medical symptom that was completely disregarded by the centre. Consequently, I was forced to seek emergency care, where I was instructed to consult my GP. This recommendation went unaddressed, ultimately compelling me to invest in a private consultation with a gastroenterology specialist. Subsequently, this private consultant, who is also an NHS professional, forwarded a letter to my GP requesting a colonoscopy referral. The referral was submitted with unprecedented unprofessionalism, devoid of any meaningful medical context. During the NHS appointment, the consultant candidly admitted that in two decades of practice, he had never encountered such an inadequate referral and had nearly rejected the appointment, only proceeding due to my recent emergency room visit. As a Spanish national, I now find myself compelled to seek medical care in Spain, a deeply disappointing development. If the healthcare system is fundamentally dysfunctional, why are citizens continuing to be taxed? I would gladly prefer paying directly for medical services when required, rather than enduring the current system's chronic inefficiency and apparent indifference. The staff remains pleasant, but the system is irreparably broken. A particularly telling detail was a faded, yellowing notice at the entrance reading: "Short of staff, please be kind." The prolonged presence of this sign suggests profound mismanagement. While temporary staff shortages might be understandable for brief periods, an extended vacancy indicates serious systemic failures and a complete inability to maintain adequate patient care standards.

Exceptional customer service that truly impressed me

The team's performance on Tuesday was absolutely impeccable. Incredibly friendly personnel and swift, efficient assistance. A thoroughly well-earned five-star rating.

Terrible service putting patients health at risk

I've only been with this medical practice for a couple of months, and it's absolutely the worst healthcare provider I've ever encountered. They've mishandled my mental health medication three times, which led to a severe episode when I was without my prescription. Additionally, I've been struggling to secure an urgent appointment for my 9-year-old daughter for over a week or two, despite ongoing pressure from her school. I cannot stress enough how much I advise against using this practice. I'm definitely switching healthcare providers because my daughter's mental health is deteriorating, and they seem completely unwilling to see her or address our concerns.

Worst medical practice ever avoid at all costs

I'm transitioning away from this medical center to a more competent general practice clinic. Anyone considering registering with this practice should seriously reconsider. It's utterly terrible - I guarantee it. If the rating system allowed negative stars, I'd select that in a heartbeat.

Terrible surgery with endless waiting and poor service

My experience with this medical practice has been nothing short of frustrating. If your health concern isn't critical, prepare for an excruciating 12-week wait just to schedule an appointment. I've personally been overlooked twice, left hanging for over three months without any callback. Their E-consult system is fundamentally broken, with physicians frequently resorting to impersonal text responses and a dismissive approach. They'll casually suggest diagnostic tests be left at reception, without providing any meaningful initial consultation or opportunity to discuss deeper medical concerns. When you finally secure an appointment, expect to waste over an hour beyond your scheduled time due to chronic delays - effectively making it impossible to integrate into a professional workday. While I understand they're understaffed, like many NHS practices, accepting new patients when they're already struggling to provide adequate care for existing patients is completely unacceptable. Significant improvement is urgently needed.

Frustrating and dangerous medical appointment nightmare

Update: 3rd attempt, precisely at 2pm daily. No appointments available. They even recorded my name and meticulously entered my details, only to dramatically announce "oh my gosh, the appointment has vanished". Completely fraudulent, with incompetent administrative personnel. How can I be 6th in the queue when calling at 2, yet still be told no appointments are open? If my health deteriorates or I develop a critical condition, this medical practice will be legally responsible. Original review: I'm calling at 10:55 struggling with a severe chest infection that's leaving me breathless, producing thick phlegm and causing intense pain. Why am I being instructed to call back at 2? I understand you're fully booked this morning. I persistently dialed the moment 8:30 arrived and remained 6th in the queue until I gave up. I've detailed my suffering, yet you instruct me to call back at 2, fully aware afternoon appointment slots exist - limited, but available. Simply book me in. I'm at work. How can I possibly dial the moment the clock strikes 2? This system is fundamentally broken, without question.

Compassionate care saved my life at surgery

A brief message of gratitude to the dedicated professionals at The Old Fire Station surgery. After navigating a challenging two-year battle with cancer, I can genuinely say that the general practitioners were instrumental in saving my life. They detected an unexpected irregularity during an unrelated consultation and promptly initiated the referral process. Despite being a bustling medical practice under considerable strain, the system functions effectively when patients adhere to established protocols. The triage mechanism is efficient, and by respecting recommended timelines and prescription renewal procedures, one can expect smooth healthcare delivery. Pam's follow-up support, frequently extending beyond standard clinic hours, provides immense reassurance and comfort. Healthcare is fundamentally a collaborative effort, requiring commitment from both patients and medical staff. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the entire Old Fire Station team.

Hope restored after years of medical disappointment

Throughout my past surgical experiences, I encountered nothing but disappointment and frustration. However, my recent visit to the Old Fire Station completely transformed my perspective. The reception staff greeted me with remarkable courtesy and professionalism, setting a positive tone from the moment I arrived. Shortly after, I met Dr. Harding, who was incredibly personable, attentive, and supportive. His approach was both compassionate and professional, which immediately put me at ease. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at the Old Fire Station for restoring my trust in healthcare and providing such an exceptional experience.

Fantastic care from a compassionate medical team

Absolutely no criticisms to share. Scheduling appointments is convenient and straightforward. When I needed my stitches removed, Pam, the nurse, was incredibly kind and compassionate. The asthma nurse who treats my son is genuinely committed to helping him manage his condition effectively. The front desk staff consistently demonstrate excellent manners and are always ready to assist.