Medical professionals at the practice receive consistent praise for professional care, compassion, and attentiveness, with several patients highlighting exceptional doctors and nursing staff. However, reception services present a stark contrast, with widespread complaints about discourteous and dismissive staff behaviour. Appointment booking remains a significant challenge, characterised by lengthy phone wait times, frequent call disconnections, and difficulty securing timely slots, with patients reporting waits of several weeks or extended periods on hold. Communication failures extend beyond booking, with patients describing unresponsive phone lines, poor callback systems, and staff who appear unwilling to assist. The practice environment and welcome are generally positive when patients reach reception in person, though the telephone experience creates substantial barriers to access. This disconnect between the quality of clinical care and the reception experience significantly undermines patient confidence in the service overall.
Patients express frustration at the absence of online booking alternatives and the reliance on a dysfunctional phone system that fails to meet demand. Several reviews note that staff attitudes range from unhelpful to confrontational, with some patients reporting they were interrogated about medical details or made to feel like an inconvenience. Prescription requests, referral processes, and follow-up care coordination have also been affected by communication breakdowns and delays. While some patients acknowledge the challenges facing healthcare services generally, the consistent pattern of reception difficulties across multiple reviews suggests systemic issues with appointment access, telephone responsiveness, and staff courtesy that require urgent attention to restore patient experience.
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Medical professionals at the practice receive consistent praise for professional care, compassion, and attentiveness, with several patients highlighting exceptional doctors and nursing staff. However, reception services present a stark contrast, with widespread complaints about discourteous and dismissive staff behaviour. Appointment booking remains a significant challenge, characterised by lengthy phone wait times, frequent call disconnections, and difficulty securing timely slots, with patients reporting waits of several weeks or extended periods on hold. Communication failures extend beyond booking, with patients describing unresponsive phone lines, poor callback systems, and staff who appear unwilling to assist. The practice environment and welcome are generally positive when patients reach reception in person, though the telephone experience creates substantial barriers to access. This disconnect between the quality of clinical care and the reception experience significantly undermines patient confidence in the service overall.
Patients express frustration at the absence of online booking alternatives and the reliance on a dysfunctional phone system that fails to meet demand. Several reviews note that staff attitudes range from unhelpful to confrontational, with some patients reporting they were interrogated about medical details or made to feel like an inconvenience. Prescription requests, referral processes, and follow-up care coordination have also been affected by communication breakdowns and delays. While some patients acknowledge the challenges facing healthcare services generally, the consistent pattern of reception difficulties across multiple reviews suggests systemic issues with appointment access, telephone responsiveness, and staff courtesy that require urgent attention to restore patient experience.
Appointment
Reception
Cleanliness
Care
Respect
Seen on time
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Lesley W.
9 months ago
Bad!
Terrible service and unacceptable waiting time
Spent more than half an hour waiting, complained to the front desk staff, ultimately decided to leave. This was supposed to be my dad's appointment, and I'm truly relieved that I'm not a patient at this medical practice.
Hassan K.
10 months ago
Bad!
Terrible service with disrespectful and unhelpful employees
The employees demonstrate a lack of professionalism and exhibit extremely discourteous behavior.
W S.
10 months ago
Excellent!
Friendly staff made my day awesome
I have absolutely no complaints About the service The front desk staff are Incredibly supportive and compassionate Many thanks Their work is genuinely challenging And they truly deserve recognition !
Sharon D.
10 months ago
Bad!
Unhelpful receptionist lacks empathy for dementia patient
The receptionist was incredibly discourteous. She spoke at lightning speed, interrupting me constantly and being extremely abrupt. Despite my explanation about my father-in-law's dementia and his urgent need for medication, she showed zero empathy. When I called after 3pm to request his tablets, she dismissively told me to use the app, which is completely unhelpful in my situation. Her treatment was a clear demonstration of disregard for a patient's needs, and her attitude was thoroughly uncaring. Eventually, she processed my request but added a note to his records stating they wouldn't accommodate such a request again. It's frustrating that families dealing with this devastating disease must also contend with such insensitive treatment. I've previously interacted with the reception staff who have always been wonderfully helpful, so I'm uncertain whether this young staff member is new and inexperienced.
Simon W.
one year ago
Bad!
Worst customer service in the history of forever
I would rate this with absolute zero if the platform allowed it. Attempting to make a phone call is futile since you're perpetually trapped in an endless waiting line. Is there seriously anyone who picks up these calls? Perhaps the cleaning staff might answer? I'm half convinced mythical figures like Lord Lucan or the legendary horse Shergar are more likely to staff their customer service 🤷🏼♂️
Denise H.
one year ago
Excellent!
Great product meets all my expectations
Quite excellent
D B.
one year ago
Excellent!
Friendly service that exceeded my expectations
Staff consistently courteous with zero issues to report
Zakia H.
one year ago
Excellent!
Great local surgery with caring medical team
Our entire family is enrolled with this medical practice, which also offers midwifery services. We have consistently received highly satisfactory care during our visits. I wholeheartedly endorse this clinic and would enthusiastically recommend it to anyone seeking quality healthcare.
Alex P.
one year ago
Bad!
Terrible customer service for medical concern
I completely understand now why their reputation reflects such low ratings. I recently consulted with a staff member regarding my bursitis condition. Although I've already completed my antibiotic treatment, the inflammation and discomfort persist without any noticeable improvement. When I sought professional advice, the representative was utterly unhelpful and simply instructed me to call back tomorrow at 8 to schedule an appointment. She provided no alternative communication options, such as a callback or having a physician reach out to offer medical insight. Her demeanor was dismissive and entirely lacking in compassion.
Marta P.
one year ago
Great!
Mixed experience with mostly caring medical staff
I'm genuinely pleased with the staff at the reception and the majority of the medical professionals. However, there was one deeply distressing incident involving a young physician who verbally attacked me, making hurtful comments about my weight and lifestyle. They suggested I was sedentary, implying I spent endless hours lounging on the couch, mindlessly consuming junk food. This cruel interaction left me emotionally devastated and in tears for an extended period. Despite this single negative experience, the other doctors were exceptionally compassionate and supportive. Aside from that one individual, my family and I have consistently received excellent care and assistance.
Patricia K.
one year ago
Excellent!
Exceptional care and support from dr javed
Dr Javed continues to impress with his warm, accessible, and highly professional demeanor. Both he and his secretary were incredibly supportive in helping me secure an essential hospital referral - I'm truly grateful for their assistance. The entire staff consistently demonstrates a welcoming attitude. My only suggestion for improvement would be implementing online booking, which previously worked brilliantly and effectively minimized telephone wait times before the pandemic.
Caitlin T.
one year ago
Bad!
Terrible medical practice with zero customer support
This medical procedure is terrible. The front desk staff are completely unhelpful. I've been attempting to retrieve my digital health information for more than 14 days and still haven't gained access! Absolutely zero assistance provided!
Carrie P.
one year ago
Bad!
Terrible service saved by one compassionate doctor
I am utterly bewildered. The appointment process is a nightmare from start to finish. Booking a slot feels like an insurmountable challenge, and even after securing one, you're left waiting over an hour on the day of your appointment. After enduring the consultation, I was handed a referral with an astounding 5-6 year waiting list. When discussing potential self-treatment, I suggested the doctor follow GMC guidance for a bridging prescription. Their response? "Let me ask my GP and get back to you." Nine days of silence followed. As a lawyer, I cannot afford to invest countless hours in a process that the GMC guidelines clearly demonstrate as complex. I am absolutely stunned by the surgery's blatant disregard for my time and their apparent lack of duty of care. I am devastated. UPDATE: Dr. Isdal on Oxford road was a revelation. Incredibly kind, compassionate, and adept at handling challenging situations. She is truly an exceptional doctor who treats patients as individuals, not mere statistics. I left feeling genuinely heard and valued. Please convey my heartfelt appreciation to her.
S I.
one year ago
Bad!
Terrible service putting patients health at risk
This medical practice in Burnley is absolutely terrible. I attempted to obtain a prescription for my aging mother before her international trip and was initially informed it would be prepared in two days. After four days, it still hasn't been completed. When I called, I was informed that the doctor won't be available until Monday to approve it, which means the total wait will now be seven days. Upon inquiring whether another physician could authorize the prescription, I was flatly refused. Initially, I was advised to contact them two days prior to her flight! This clinic demonstrates clear signs of incompetent management, and based on other reviews, such unprofessional behavior appears to be their standard practice.
Danielle H.
one year ago
Bad!
Frustrating struggle to book cervical screening test
I'm genuinely anxious right now! I've received a letter for my cervical screening test, and I've been attempting to schedule it all week. Each time I try calling the surgery, I'm disconnected and end up wasting hours on hold while trying to work. I'm fully aware of how crucial these screenings are! You'd think there would be an alternative booking method, like through the patient access app, but unfortunately not! I'm determined to secure my appointment and will continue trying next week, hoping for success. It's completely baffling how the phone system has become so dysfunctional that patients can't even get through. Perhaps they could implement a system where patients submit requests and these are then prioritized from high to low based on urgency, instead of making everyone wait endlessly on the phone. During my last attempt to contact them, I had to take time off work and visit the surgery in person, and I might need to do the same again. If anyone can suggest alternative locations for getting this screening done without going through my GP, I'm absolutely open to hearing about them.
Judith S.
one year ago
Excellent!
Excellent care at local medical practices
During my recent interactions with Parkside and Oxford Road medical facilities, I've been thoroughly impressed by the exceptional care and professionalism demonstrated by the entire staff, including the receptionists, nursing team, and physicians at each visit.
Philip P.
one year ago
Excellent!
Great same-day care at parkside surgery
Parkside surgery was incredibly accommodating. I called and secured a same-day appointment, and when I arrived, they saw me precisely at the scheduled time. Excellent, prompt service - much appreciated.
Tracey R.
one year ago
Excellent!
Compassionate doctor who truly cares about patients
I visited a new physician, Dr. Sinha, and after encountering numerous medical professionals throughout my life, I can confidently say he stands out as one of the most compassionate and kind doctors I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. It's truly unfortunate that there aren't more healthcare providers like him.
Craig L.
one year ago
Bad!
Unacceptable medical care for vulnerable patient
Medical professionals informed my son through a pharmacist that he needs to independently obtain his prescription for a regulated medication. Just to provide context, my son has autism, dyspraxia, and ADHD, and is categorized as a vulnerable adult. To the specific physician responsible - and you know exactly who you are - you are an absolute nightmare of a doctor. The way you treat vulnerable patients is appalling, particularly considering you've recently received a salary increase and constantly complain about being overworked. Well, the people you refuse to see in person are also experiencing overwhelming challenges, yet you won't even consider working weekend shifts.
Abdul S.
one year ago
Poor!
Endless phone queue nightmare for gp appointment
The last occasion I needed to contact my GP was during the Covid period, and being an infrequent patient, I had to phone for an appointment for one of the first times in years. Calls must be made precisely at 8am, so I dialed exactly on time and immediately found myself at queue position 15. After enduring a 45-minute hold, I progressed to number 3, only to be abruptly disconnected. Calling back, I started at queue number 31 and waited another 1 hour and 20 minutes before finally getting through to book an appointment. Over 2 hours of waiting, I managed to secure a slot around 10.15am. The call handler was pleasant and professional, though the earliest available appointment was a week away. Goodness! The decline of GP services is deeply concerning. I cannot fault the surgery itself, as I'm certain the staff are working incredibly hard and doing their utmost under challenging circumstances. I have nothing but praise for the staff and doctors who are genuinely excellent people. This situation stems largely from poor policy decisions by NHS trusts, managers, and government. I feel immense sympathy for those who must regularly navigate these medical services, recognizing how incredibly frustrating this must be. I can clearly see how this leads many to seek urgent care or emergency services instead, which further strains those systems. Emergency waiting times are around 6 hours, and at Blackburn's emergency department, trolleys of (predominantly elderly) patients are left waiting in corridors. It's absolutely unacceptable that East Lancashire Health Care is so dysfunctional. I genuinely hope the new Labour government can improve things, as it seems impossible for the situation to deteriorate further. Challenging to determine the rating, but ultimately reflecting on the unacceptably long wait time balanced against courteous call handling.