Red House Medical Centre

Impossible to book an appointment here

It is extremely difficult to secure an appointment at this practice. When callbacks are promised, they do not materialise as expected. This has been a source of frustration.

Prescriptions cut without warning or discussion

The practice was satisfactory until 2018, after which the experience deteriorated. Recently, my prescription was reduced for the third occasion without prior notice or consultation, which was disappointing. I found it concerning that a pharmacist appeared to be making decisions about my medication without my involvement.

Long-serving surgery with caring staff despite busy schedules

I joined this surgery with my parents when I was 10 years old and I am 80 now. It was located on a well-known avenue and was run by a wonderful doctor along with another practitioner. His son joined the practice and moved into the house where the practice is now situated. There have been various characters working there over the years but on the whole I would say they were good people. Nowadays the doctors and staff are run off their feet with no rest. I understand patients being impatient but that is what life is like nowadays. Today's doctors are as good if not better than years ago and we have one of the best doctors in the North working at the practice.

Surgery turned away urgent breathing problem

My mother-in-law experienced difficulty breathing and was advised by the surgery to contact 111. We accompanied her to accident and emergency where we waited for approximately three hours, only to be told to arrange an appointment at the surgery instead. When she called back the following morning, she was informed the practice was busy but that she would receive a call with an appointment that day. I made follow-up calls and received similar responses about the practice being busy, despite visiting in person and observing an empty waiting room. The surgery is now closed until Monday. The overall experience felt frustrating and unhelpful.

Reception staff had dismissive attitude throughout

The poorest medical practice I have encountered. Healthcare professionals who decline to provide assistance. Reception staff who display unhelpful demeanours, and in my view seem indifferent to patient wellbeing. Each interaction with them proves frustrating and leaves one feeling upset.

Helpful and responsive on my recent visit

Excellent service today. The clinician was very helpful during my recent visit.

Practice ignored concerns and wouldn't refer me

This practice has been deeply disappointing for me. I experienced significant difficulties several years ago that had serious consequences for my family, and I have continued to attend here despite ongoing concerns. Over the past couple of years, I have been struggling with my health but feel I am not receiving adequate support. The clinical team appears reluctant to consider specialist referrals, and despite abnormal test results, my appointments seem to focus on ruling out minor conditions rather than addressing my underlying concerns. I have lost confidence in receiving meaningful help from this practice and have decided to seek care elsewhere.

Impossible to reach by phone for urgent needs

I have been attempting to contact the practice since early morning and have been redirected to the NHS 111 service. As someone with a chronic health condition requiring ongoing medication, I find it frustrating that I cannot reach the surgery directly to address my medical needs.

Reception staff need better communication skills

The approach taken by reception staff when patients attempt to book appointments leaves much to be desired. While the clinical staff provide excellent care during consultations, the front-of-house team would benefit from improved communication and interpersonal skills training.

Receptionist blocked access to prescribed emergency medication

I have been a patient at this practice for many decades and have never felt compelled to leave a review until now. I was prescribed a strong pain medication eighteen months ago by my specialist doctors for a serious spinal condition that developed following an accident. Due to underlying respiratory issues, I am unable to have surgery and must rely on this prescribed medication to manage my condition. The prescribed dosage is intended to be taken regularly throughout the day. My mobility is severely limited and I struggle with basic daily activities. I am experiencing significant chronic pain and breathing difficulties and am trying to access the relief I need. Without my regular medication, I have resorted to over-the-counter alternatives, which has resulted in a chest infection developing. I contacted the practice to request my emergency medication that was prescribed by my respiratory specialist, as my oxygen levels are low and I am using breathing support equipment. I am struggling to manage basic tasks and feel unable to attend appointments or access services independently. I am extremely distressed by this situation. Throughout my many years with this practice, I have rarely needed to attend appointments. I feel this matter requires discussion with a qualified healthcare professional rather than administrative staff, and I believe the practice has a responsibility to provide appropriate care and support to all patients. I am deeply disappointed by how this has been handled.

Staff didn't listen during phone calls

It would be helpful if patients had more opportunity to speak when they call the practice. The staff could be more attentive, and there was an incident where a suggested remedy did not agree with me. Additionally, the appointment booking process could be significantly improved.

Practice enforced mask policy without exception

Was unable to receive an appointment due to a disagreement regarding personal protective measures. This situation has persisted for an extended period and felt like an unreasonable restriction on my ability to access care.

Restored faith after finding the right doctor

After a difficult experience with a clinician at this practice, I decided to book an appointment with another doctor. This appointment was a welcome change, and I was very pleased with the care I received. My confidence in the practice has been restored.

Receptionist made booking straightforward and friendly

I had no difficulty contacting the surgery to arrange an appointment, as I was able to get through without issue and the reception staff member was friendly and courteous. During my visit, the clinician was very polite and made me feel comfortable. The receptionist also went above and beyond by providing me with additional information regarding a separate concern beyond what I had originally come in for. I would certainly recommend this practice.

Friendly reception made the visit pleasant

I appreciate the practice.

Chest pain taken seriously without dismissal

I appreciated being referred to the emergency department, which led to my diagnosis. I felt that the referral was appropriate, as I was concerned that my symptoms might otherwise have been dismissed as stress-related, which can sometimes happen with younger patients presenting with chest discomfort. Thank you.

Good local surgery with friendly reception

It's a satisfactory neighbourhood medical practice.