Rainham Health Centre

Difficult to get appointments through phone calls

We have not been able to secure an appointment since registering with this practice, and the support provided during telephone consultations has been inadequate.

Appointment cancelled without prior warning

I attended a mental health appointment that did not proceed as expected, as the clinician failed to appear. I had received no prior notification about this cancellation, which meant the appointment time was wasted. Additionally, a family member was prescribed medication and was supposed to have a follow-up review after two weeks, but nearly six weeks have now passed without any contact to check on how they are managing with the treatment. I feel this practice requires closer examination of their appointment and follow-up procedures.

Reception staff weren't helpful with my concerns

I have had a very negative experience at this surgery. The staff, including those at reception and in management positions, were unhelpful and displayed poor attitudes towards me. When I attempted to raise concerns, the response I received was dismissive rather than supportive. I felt that my complaint was not taken seriously or handled with appropriate care. Due to this experience, I have decided to return to my previous doctor's surgery. I would not recommend this practice to others, as I did not feel that the level of service or support met my expectations.

Reception staff were unhelpful when I registered

I had a very negative experience with this practice and regretted switching my GP registration here after relocating. The service fell short of what I was accustomed to at my previous location.

Phone lines impossible to reach, appointments delayed weeks

A deeply frustrating experience at this practice. Appointments continue to be conducted primarily by telephone rather than in person, and the phone lines are frequently difficult to reach. When contact is eventually made, the reception team's manner leaves much to be desired. There appears to be little consideration given to individual circumstances, which led to me seeking private care elsewhere at considerable expense, as the practice could not accommodate an appointment for several weeks to assess a skin concern despite relevant family history. It seems incongruous that the premises often appear quiet while staff engagement with patient needs remains minimal. A formal complaint was submitted to the Clinical Commissioning Group in November 2021 and remains unresolved. This practice does not come recommended.

Felt ignored and dismissed at appointment

This practice has become extremely disappointing. I would advise against registering here unless you are comfortable with feeling overlooked and disregarded.

Reception staff were dismissive and unhelpful

I had a very disappointing experience at this practice. The reception staff member I encountered displayed poor communication skills, both over the phone and during in-person interactions. When I requested information about how to lodge a complaint, I was not provided with the necessary details. Based on the pattern of feedback from other patients, it appears the practice may have ongoing challenges with staff quality and service standards. I would recommend considering alternative healthcare providers.

Couldn't get routine appointments when needed

I have had a very negative experience at this GP practice. I believe the management and operations require significant improvement or oversight. The team members have come across as unhelpful and unmotivated, and I have found it difficult to access the services I need. I rarely manage to see the same clinician and have struggled to obtain basic care such as wound dressing appointments. Despite being registered with this practice, I have had to travel elsewhere to receive treatment that should be available locally. I am deeply disappointed with the standard of care and feel that patients' needs are not being prioritised appropriately. I would encourage others to consider whether this practice is meeting their healthcare requirements and to explore alternative options if needed.

Reception staff inconsistency and locum doctor indifference

Unfortunately, the quality of care at this practice appears to have declined in recent times. I feel that relevant authorities should look into the situation promptly. In my experience, there seems to be a lack of understanding across the board, from some reception staff who are occasionally helpful to temporary clinical staff who appear disengaged with their roles here. I have tried to be understanding on multiple occasions, but the overall level of professionalism has been disappointing. At present, I would not feel comfortable recommending this practice to others. That said, this is simply my personal perspective. The practice has seemingly lost the standards that were previously associated with it in a relatively short space of time. I hope things improve going forward.

Unprofessional staff dismissed my husband's wasted appointment

I would not recommend this clinic as I felt the service lacked professionalism. I was dispensed medication that appeared unsuitable for my existing treatment regimen. Fortunately, I consulted with the pharmacist who advised against taking it. When I contacted the practice about this concern, I was instructed to undergo testing and attend a follow-up appointment, despite the results being several weeks old. My husband attended an appointment only to find that the clinical equipment was not functioning, and he felt the situation was handled insensitively. Additionally, my mother, who suffers from a chronic joint condition causing significant discomfort, felt that the practice was unable to offer her adequate support or direction regarding her care.

Reception team made me feel genuinely welcome

I had a conversation with a member of the reception staff who was absolutely delightful. They demonstrated exceptional helpfulness, friendliness, and composure throughout our interaction.

Appointment cancelled without any advance notice

I attended my appointment at the Health Centre on the scheduled day, only to be informed that my appointment needed to be rescheduled to two days later due to staff availability. I was not notified in advance by phone or text message about this change, which I found frustrating. The apology I received felt insufficient given the inconvenience caused.