Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience with significant operational challenges alongside pockets of excellent care. Appointment access remains a persistent concern, with patients reporting lengthy telephone queues, limited availability through online booking systems, and frustration with the triage process. Communication about test results and follow-up care appears disorganised, and prescription coordination between the practice and pharmacy has created difficulties for some patients. Reception experience varies considerably, with some describing courteous and accommodating staff while others report discourtesy and dismissiveness.

Where care is delivered, particularly by nursing staff, patients consistently praise the compassionate and thorough approach. Several patients highlight exceptional experiences with specific healthcare professionals, noting warmth, attentiveness, and genuine investment in their wellbeing. Consultations, when they occur, are often described as unhurried and comprehensive. However, these positive interactions are frequently undermined by the administrative and booking challenges that precede them.

The practice appears to be managing within resource constraints, though recent renovations and system changes have not yet resolved fundamental issues around appointment availability and responsiveness. Patients express frustration that despite friendly and caring clinical staff, the organisational inefficiency and poor communication create barriers to accessing timely care, leading some to seek alternative providers.

Appointment

35.64 %
Poor

Reception

42.18 %
Poor

Cleanliness

52.41 %
Average

Care

54.76 %
Average

Respect

46.89 %
Poor

Seen on time

38.92 %
Poor

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FW

Finley W. Google 9 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Rushed appointment leads to frustration and poor care

My encounter at Sutherland Lodge surgery was brief. Upon sitting down with the nurse (not the doctor), I was immediately informed that our 15-minute slot was insufficient to address all my concerns. Fantastic start, indeed. When I explained that I sought a comprehensive check-up due to significant changes since my last GP visit, I was scheduled for a blood test - straightforward enough. However, the information I shared was either documented inaccurately or seemingly ignored by the nurse. I've requested they rectify this through their numerous "please review us" communications. Following the test results, I've been unable to schedule another appointment via the Evergreen App. The surgery fails to be online during their stated availability, making form submission extremely challenging. Each time I submit a request to the GP, I'm told it's incorrect. The entire experience is frustrating, and I'm currently in the process of transferring to another GP practice in hopes of receiving better care. The service is far from satisfactory - I cannot recommend this surgery to anyone.

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AJ

Ashley J. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional doctor who made pediatric visit magical

Dr. Chowdhury was truly exceptional during our pediatric consultation. His approach was nothing short of remarkable - combining warmth, professionalism, and extensive medical expertise. He meticulously walked us through every detail, ensuring we comprehended each aspect of the discussion. What truly distinguished him was his remarkable ability to create a calm, supportive environment that instantly made my 4-year-old daughter feel comfortable and secure. His gentle demeanor transformed what could have been an intimidating medical visit into a positive, empowering experience. The thoughtful gesture of presenting her with a certificate at the appointment's conclusion made her feel incredibly proud and brave. We departed feeling completely reassured and impressed by his outstanding clinical skills. Additionally, the reception team deserves recognition for their consistently welcoming and helpful attitude. Dr. Chowdhury is undoubtedly a healthcare professional of the highest caliber, and we are immensely thankful for the exceptional care he provided.

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JM

Jacquie M. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Great!

Great service from start to finish

Swift and competent service - much appreciated

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MP

Michelle P. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional healthcare with compassionate and skilled staff

Following the recent renovation, the medical practice has undergone a remarkable transformation. The front desk personnel are incredibly supportive and accommodating. Lead Nurse Trish Marriage stands out as an exceptional healthcare professional - her expertise, warmth, and dedication are truly outstanding, making her an exemplary nurse.

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GE

Godspower E. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible healthcare experience at this medical practice

Absolutely the most incompetent medical practice nationwide. Securing a consultation is an exhausting ordeal, and the front desk staff are incredibly unhelpful and discourteous to an extreme degree.

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SH

Steve H. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care from a true nursing professional

Trish demonstrates extensive nursing expertise and maintains a highly professional demeanor in her work.

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AR

Allyson R. Google 10 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Excellent health check with caring professional nurse

During my yearly health assessment, I had the pleasure of meeting Trish. Her approach was thoroughly professional yet warm, and she provided clear, helpful information throughout the consultation. I would confidently suggest scheduling an appointment with her to anyone seeking a comprehensive and pleasant health checkup.

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CM

Clare M. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Great service from a fantastic stylist

Met with Trish today, and she was her usual welcoming and supportive self.

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DG

Dolores G. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Trisha made my hospital visit truly wonderful

Today, I was fortunate to have Trisha as my nurse, who was incredibly kind and helpful. Her exceptional care and demeanor truly stood out.

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SW

Stacie W. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Poor!

Friendly staff but seriously terrible medical service

The staff are genuinely delightful, but the service is absolutely abysmal! Upon our transfer to Sutherland Lodge (feb 2025), they misplaced two of my child's application forms within a mere two weeks, with the third application proceeding smoothly. I received missed appointment notifications despite never having scheduled any appointments, which unfairly tarnishes one's NHS record. Me: I attempted to book my depo injection, but upon arrival, they claimed they "couldn't locate the injection" and suggested rebooking. When I called the following week, they informed me they didn't have the shots on-site and that I needed to obtain a prescription first. Inexplicably, they booked me two additional injection appointments without securing a prescription or notifying me, resulting in unwarranted no-show marks. These injections are critically time-sensitive, requiring precise 12-week intervals. Fortunately, I was on a treatment break, otherwise this could have caused serious medical complications. My child: After prolonged waiting for form uploads, she finally secured a medication review appointment. We were told the prescription merely needed signing and would be pharmacy-available the next day. However, it wasn't ready, and upon checking two days later, we discovered it hadn't been arranged at all, still awaiting a doctor's signature. Due to no available signing personnel for an entire day, we couldn't collect the prescription for another two days. The level of disorganization is utterly mind-blowing, especially concerning healthcare matters. We've ultimately transferred to another medical practice. Two months of persistent miscommunication and bureaucratic inefficiency finally pushed us over the edge.

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NW

Nigel W. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Great!

Sutherland lodge struggles but shows promising improvements

It is abundantly clear that the once-stellar Sutherland Lodge experienced a significant decline after the departure of three senior partners and other staff a couple of years ago, and has been struggling ever since. A parade of temporary locum doctors has quickly come and gone, with only one permanent physician, effectively eliminating any hope of consistent care. Virgin faced a substantial challenge in reversing this downturn, which cannot happen instantaneously, but I was heartened to observe considerable improvements during my recent visit. The enhancements to the reception area, notice boards, and communication systems, coupled with the friendly and upbeat staff, have created a much more inviting atmosphere, and I experienced minimal waiting time before seeing the Practice Nurse, as per my pre-arranged appointment. Overall, a very promising step forward. Update Unfortunately, the implementation of the triage system has proven both exasperating and ineffective for me. It is entirely possible to access the online booking system within minutes of its 8.00am opening and be informed that no appointments remain available for the day. However, my recent interactions with telephone consultations initiated by the surgery, such as my latest COPD review, have been successful, particularly with the consistently cheerful Trish!

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MW

Mark W. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care leads to perfect medical solution

A straightforward, succinct conversation led to a significantly improved health approach. Much appreciation, Trish.

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NR

Natalie R. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible service drove us away from this clinic

We had high hopes for positive changes following the renovation, but instead, the situation has deteriorated! Their communication regarding test results appears completely disorganized and unprofessional. I'm consistently left with minimal communication, typically just an occasional phone call if I'm fortunate, and never receiving a proper face-to-face consultation. After 15 years of enduring this subpar service, I've finally departed. My entire family had already relocated earlier due to the consistently poor treatment. Our current location is significantly superior in every respect.

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SB

Sarah B. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Surprisingly pleasant medical experience with caring staff

The front desk area is immaculate and the reception team consistently appears professional and accommodating. My blood draw experience was completely comfortable, with the nurse being exceptionally gentle and engaging, effectively distracting me from any anxiety about the procedure. The entire process was remarkably efficient, and surprisingly, I actually enjoyed my visit! Kudos to your wonderful team.

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JS

Jane S. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Great!

Dedicated nurses shine at sutherland lodge

My time at Sutherland Lodge has been somewhat inconsistent, but the nursing staff consistently stand out as exceptional. I'm particularly impressed by Lead Nurse Trish and cannot speak highly enough of the incredible care provided by the entire nursing team.

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NS

Neil S. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care that goes above and beyond

I consistently interact with Trish and her colleagues at the medical practice, and their support has been exceptional. The service is invariably prompt, compassionate, and reliable. Both myself, in my caregiving capacity, and my elderly father with complex health challenges, have complete confidence in the guidance we receive. They truly stand out as a beacon of excellence within the broader National Health Service landscape! Sincere appreciation. 👍

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AS

Alan S. Google 11 months ago

Rating

Excellent!

Smooth sailing with gentle and professional nurses

I'm pleased to report that my series of six injections, spread across a two-week timeframe, is progressing smoothly. Having just completed my fourth injection, I'm impressed by the exceptional care provided by the nursing staff. Their approach is consistently compassionate and skilled, and I want to give a full five-star rating to this outstanding group of healthcare professionals.

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HH

H H. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible care and dangerous medical negligence

I'm perplexed by the recent glowing testimonials - it seems like I must have encountered a completely different medical facility. I've been waiting 4 years for a procedure to address an abscess. Those familiar with such conditions understand how excruciating and life-disrupting they can be. Sutherland Lodge has been extraordinarily unhelpful in resolving this issue, forcing me to directly pursue the hospital, which appears oblivious to Sutherland Lodge's prior actions. I'm not typically quick to pass judgment based on a single encounter, but unfortunately, this isn't an isolated incident. "Men don't seek help"; a common saying, and while I've been reluctant to share my experience, I will. I consulted a GP regarding suicidal thoughts and was told verbatim: 1. "You're being unreasonable, just think more positively". 2. "Simply ignore the negative aspects". 3. "Volunteering will improve your mood". I then received a text message directing me to a service in another county. I can only describe this interaction as criminally negligent and potentially life-threatening. Haven't the Lampard Inquiry and 2000+ fatalities demonstrated the need to take such concerns seriously? Additionally, a close family member recently sought help for chest pain and was summarily dismissed and accused of fabricating symptoms. This institution is utterly incompetent. While I'm genuinely pleased for those sharing their positive experiences, I desperately wish my family could receive the same level of care and attention.

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DM

Dan M. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Amazing service from a true professional

Outstanding - Trish demonstrates a warm demeanor, provides great support, and possesses deep expertise in her field.

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WB

Wayne B. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Trish marriage delivers exceptional health and wellness care

Trish's exceptional care has consistently provided me with top-tier support, and her expert guidance has dramatically enhanced my well-being to an incredible degree. I can only express the most glowing praise for Trish's services, hoping her outstanding approach continues indefinitely. Her first-rate assistance is truly remarkable and has made an immense difference in my life.

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About the GP

  • Verified GP
  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 01245 351351
  • Sutherland Lodge Surgery 115 Baddow Road Chelmsford Essex CM2 7PY

Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience with significant operational challenges alongside pockets of excellent care. Appointment access remains a persistent concern, with patients reporting lengthy telephone queues, limited availability through online booking systems, and frustration with the triage process. Communication about test results and follow-up care appears disorganised, and prescription coordination between the practice and pharmacy has created difficulties for some patients. Reception experience varies considerably, with some describing courteous and accommodating staff while others report discourtesy and dismissiveness.

Where care is delivered, particularly by nursing staff, patients consistently praise the compassionate and thorough approach. Several patients highlight exceptional experiences with specific healthcare professionals, noting warmth, attentiveness, and genuine investment in their wellbeing. Consultations, when they occur, are often described as unhurried and comprehensive. However, these positive interactions are frequently undermined by the administrative and booking challenges that precede them.

The practice appears to be managing within resource constraints, though recent renovations and system changes have not yet resolved fundamental issues around appointment availability and responsiveness. Patients express frustration that despite friendly and caring clinical staff, the organisational inefficiency and poor communication create barriers to accessing timely care, leading some to seek alternative providers.

Appointment

35.64 %
Poor

Reception

42.18 %
Poor

Cleanliness

52.41 %
Average

Care

54.76 %
Average

Respect

46.89 %
Poor

Seen on time

38.92 %
Poor
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