Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience with significant operational challenges alongside clinical strengths. Appointment access emerges as the most persistent concern, with patients reporting difficulty reaching the practice by phone, long waiting times both on hold and in queues, and frustration with same-day-only booking systems that disadvantage working professionals. Reception experience is notably inconsistent, with some patients praising courteous and supportive staff while others describe dismissive, unhelpful, or discourteous interactions. Communication breakdowns are evident across multiple service areas, including appointment scheduling, follow-up care coordination, and responsiveness to patient inquiries and complaints.

In contrast, clinical care receives consistent praise. Patients describe doctors and nurses as professional, compassionate, and clinically competent, with several practitioners highlighted for their expertise and genuine care. The disparity between reception and clinical experiences is striking, with patients often acknowledging excellent medical staff while criticizing administrative barriers to accessing that care.

Key service improvements needed include enhanced phone system capacity and responsiveness, more flexible appointment booking options, better staff training in courtesy and communication, and improved coordination between reception and clinical teams. While some patients report recent improvements in wait times and the introduction of callback systems, the overall pattern suggests systemic administrative challenges that undermine confidence in the practice despite strong clinical performance.

Appointment

32.67 %
Bad

Reception

38.45 %
Poor

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

72.18 %
Great

Respect

45.23 %
Poor

Seen on time

41.89 %
Poor

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AE

Alison E. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care through challenging alzheimer's journey

When my mother-in-law received her Alzheimer's diagnosis, I sought guidance from the Practice. Liz Gorrell provided me with the necessary support and direction. Upon visiting the clinic, I was struck by the incredible compassion of the Receptionist and an Admin Team member who went above and beyond to help during this challenging period for our family. Their approach was nothing short of extraordinary. Additionally, I've consulted Dr Khattab for my own medical concerns, and I'm consistently impressed by his exceptional patient care. His communication style is remarkable - he's genuinely empathetic, takes time to thoroughly explain medical issues, and demonstrates a level of understanding that truly sets him apart as a healthcare professional. I cannot recommend him highly enough 🤩

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GH

Gil H. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Great!

Terrible service and unhelpful receptionists

A complete letdown. Sent a formal complaint, but they couldn't even bother to respond. Likely the complaint was never even acknowledged. The front desk staff are remarkably unhelpful. The medical professionals might be competent if you can overcome the gatekeeping receptionists. They resort to intimidation, threatening to withhold medication unless you attend their clinics. Utterly unacceptable. We've experienced numerous issues with this practice over an extended period. It seems the management is failing to address these systemic problems. I'm at a loss for how to resolve this situation. We are currently in the process of transferring to a different medical practice. We should have made this change much earlier.

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KH

Karen H. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Wonderful healthcare with compassionate and reliable staff

I consistently experience top-notch service and attention. Scheduling appointments is never a problem when necessary. The team demonstrates genuine compassion and delivers professional care without fail.

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CK

Christopher K. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible customer service ruins medical practice

Missed appointments are hardly surprising when the front desk staff consistently fail to pick up incoming calls.

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MM

Maria M. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Riverside surgery saved my life completely

Since November, I've been a patient at this medical practice, having transferred from another clinic following a distressing encounter with a receptionist. Riverside surgery has truly been my lifeline, and that upsetting incident ironically turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The unfortunate reality is that I arrived at Riverside with excessive Thyroxine levels, swollen legs, and a Basal Cell Carcinoma requiring removal from my nose - all of which should have been identified by my previous healthcare provider. I want to express my deepest gratitude to Dr Uzair Ahmad for essentially saving my life. Without his immediate and compassionate care, I would undoubtedly not be here today. My heartfelt thanks also extend to Drs Yanusa and Khan, the nursing staff, Michelle, and the entire Reception team. You have all been incredible. Maria Dos-Santos Martins. ❤️

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TR

Test R. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible care left me in painful medical limbo

Sought medical attention for intense chest discomfort, but was completely dismissed by the physician. Instead of providing immediate care, they callously directed me to an urgent care facility located 11 miles away at Chorley Hospital.

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AB

A B. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible medical service left me frustrated and hopeless

Utterly disgraceful! My medical appointment was abruptly cancelled due to staff absence, accompanied by a dismissive message stating they would contact me to reschedule (after enduring weeks of waiting). Silence followed for over a fortnight, and upon calling, I was coldly advised to seek emergency services if truly urgent, otherwise just wait. Subsequently, I received a call offering an appointment in just over a week, which I accepted. However, upon arriving at the clinic, they claimed to have "no record" of the booking and essentially accused me of fabricating the appointment, insisting the staff member who called me "doesn't recall" our conversation. I was prevented from directly speaking with a manager and forced to wait 15 minutes while they consulted. Ultimately, I was told to return later that afternoon with slim hope of being seen. Effectively labeled a liar, I was left emotionally devastated and summarily dismissed. Completely unacceptable!

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RC

Rachel C. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and professional medical care

I was ushered into Dr. Khattab's examination room almost immediately after arriving; he was incredibly swift and quickly resolved my medical concern. I departed the clinic feeling thoroughly satisfied with the entire experience.

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CB

Corrie B. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional customer service with friendly front desk staff

I consistently experience exceptional service from the front desk staff, with Caitlin being particularly outstanding recently. Instead of waiting in line during a crowded period, I chose the callback option and was delightfully impressed by how quickly I received the return call. Our practice is held in the highest regard, and we have always been treated with the utmost care and compassion by the entire team. If I may offer a constructive suggestion, the introductory call's "Zero tolerance" message could be softened, with wording that conveys understanding rather than sounding confrontational. Returning to a positive perspective, I extend my sincere gratitude to everyone for delivering an excellent service in such a bustling environment.

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JH

Jamie H. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Endless wait with zero customer support help

Stuck waiting endlessly... Been on hold for more than an hour and a half, and still no customer representative has picked up. Absolutely unacceptable customer support!

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RM

Riya M. Google one year ago

Rating

Average!

Improved customer service response times rock

Wait times for customer service calls have significantly improved since the start of this year.

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RT

Rob T. Google one year ago

Rating

Poor!

Friendly service with a frustrating phone experience

Friendly employees, but goodness gracious, can someone please pick up the telephone.

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JF

Jeremy F. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional doctors and staff at local surgery

This medical practice is truly exceptional. Dr Khatab and Dr Kennedy are particularly outstanding, demonstrating immense kindness, compassion, and expertise. I have nothing but admiration for their work under challenging conditions. While I've noticed some negative reviews, I've personally never experienced any issues. However, if someone feels dissatisfied, they should explore alternative options. I've frequently witnessed patients being disruptive and discourteous to staff, and it seems some of these individuals have left critical comments. I couldn't imagine working for the NHS, as the reception area can be chaotic, yet the staff consistently remain polite and helpful. They genuinely deserve recognition for their dedication. My assessment remains unchanged from a year ago. Absolutely phenomenal. Dr Nair, Dr Kennedy, Dr Winstanley, Dr Khattab are all excellent. Our family has encountered numerous health challenges recently, which have been overwhelming. The reception staff, Beverley and her colleagues (whose names I apologize for not remembering), are all fantastic. The doctors are incredibly attentive and compassionate. I'm truly grateful to have such an outstanding medical facility so close to home.

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BR

Brandon R. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Worst customer service ever wasted my time

I phoned during a seemingly quiet period. Despite the short queue of just two, then one person ahead, I found myself incredibly frustrated. After an excessively long wait of sixty minutes, I ultimately decided to disconnect the call.

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NR

Nicola R. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Frustrating delays prevent ordering crucial medication

I initiated contact with the Surgery over two months ago, submitting all required documentation to gain prescription ordering access for my 13-year-old stepdaughter, as previously instructed. Since then, I've made two separate phone calls (consuming more than an hour of my time) attempting to resolve the app access permission issue. During each call, staff assured me the problem was fixed. It was not. During my in-person visit last week, a Receptionist examined the app on my phone and committed to having the appropriate staff member address the permissions problem. Despite this, the situation remains unresolved. Consequently, I am completely unable to order my stepdaughter's essential repeat medication through either the app or telephone, as the Surgery prohibits phone-based prescription requests. This ongoing situation is absolutely unacceptable and demonstrates a significant breakdown in basic administrative communication and customer service.

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RG

R G. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible service and unhelpful staff at clinic

You shut down at 6 PM, not 17:30, causing customers to wait in line only to discover that when their turn arrives, they're left hanging. It appears the receptionist acts as if they're self-employed and can do whatever they please without regard for customer service.

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LT

Louise T. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Shocking service leaves elderly patient without care

My elderly father, aged 86, was scheduled for essential blood tests, but upon arrival, the staff claimed ignorance about his appointment. He was abruptly dismissed without any alternative date being offered, despite the doctor's referral due to his poor health. The medical practice's handling of patients is absolutely appalling. After spending nearly three-quarters of an hour attempting to resolve the issue via telephone, I was unceremoniously disconnected.

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SH

Siân H. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Fantastic family care at riverside medical centre

Riverside Medical Centre has been our trusted healthcare provider for an extended period. The medical professionals, including doctors and nurse practitioners, demonstrate extensive expertise, offer compassionate support, and deliver top-notch medical treatment. The front desk staff consistently maintain a warm, polite, and incredibly supportive demeanor. We enthusiastically endorse this medical facility.

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JL

John L. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible service and endless waiting at clinic

This medical procedure is completely pointless. The front desk staff's sole purpose seems to be redirecting patients away from seeing a physician and instructing them to visit the emergency room. Upon arriving at the ER, I endured an excruciating 11-hour wait to consult with a doctor. Honestly, you'd be far more efficient simply waiting until after 6 pm and contacting the after-hours medical service.

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GJ

George J. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care from riverside medical centre team

The care I've experienced recently has been outstanding in addressing my medical concerns. I want to express my sincere appreciation for the exceptional support provided by Dr Nair, Dr Khattab, and receptionist Beverley, who has been incredibly helpful in coordinating my appointments with the utmost professionalism. My heartfelt thanks go out to the entire team at Riverside Medical Centre. Warmly grateful, George Jones.

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About the GP

  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 01772 201010
  • Riverside Medical Centre 194 Victoria Road Walton-Le-Dale Preston PR5 4AY

Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience with significant operational challenges alongside clinical strengths. Appointment access emerges as the most persistent concern, with patients reporting difficulty reaching the practice by phone, long waiting times both on hold and in queues, and frustration with same-day-only booking systems that disadvantage working professionals. Reception experience is notably inconsistent, with some patients praising courteous and supportive staff while others describe dismissive, unhelpful, or discourteous interactions. Communication breakdowns are evident across multiple service areas, including appointment scheduling, follow-up care coordination, and responsiveness to patient inquiries and complaints.

In contrast, clinical care receives consistent praise. Patients describe doctors and nurses as professional, compassionate, and clinically competent, with several practitioners highlighted for their expertise and genuine care. The disparity between reception and clinical experiences is striking, with patients often acknowledging excellent medical staff while criticizing administrative barriers to accessing that care.

Key service improvements needed include enhanced phone system capacity and responsiveness, more flexible appointment booking options, better staff training in courtesy and communication, and improved coordination between reception and clinical teams. While some patients report recent improvements in wait times and the introduction of callback systems, the overall pattern suggests systemic administrative challenges that undermine confidence in the practice despite strong clinical performance.

Appointment

32.67 %
Bad

Reception

38.45 %
Poor

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

72.18 %
Great

Respect

45.23 %
Poor

Seen on time

41.89 %
Poor
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