Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience at this practice, with significant variation in service quality across different areas. Reception experience emerges as a key concern, with multiple patients reporting discourteous interactions, poor communication, and administrative failures that have deterred them from using the service. Appointment access and booking remain problematic, with patients describing lengthy waiting times for consultations and difficulty reaching the practice by phone. However, several patients have praised specific medical professionals for their compassionate care, attentive listening, and thorough examinations, suggesting that clinical care quality is inconsistent across the team.

The practice appears to be undergoing transition, with some recent improvements noted by returning patients who report better organisation and more responsive staff. Positive feedback frequently highlights individual practitioners and reception staff members who demonstrate genuine commitment to patient-centred care. Conversely, negative reviews consistently cite reception discourtesy, administrative disorganisation, and poor responsiveness to patient needs as barriers to accessing care. Communication between departments and with patients remains a significant weakness, with reports of lost referrals and delayed follow-up.

While medical expertise and professional conduct are praised in several reviews, systemic issues around appointment availability, reception courtesy, and organisational efficiency continue to undermine the overall patient experience. The practice would benefit from addressing these operational challenges to match the quality of care provided by its clinical staff.

Appointment

45.23 %
Poor

Reception

48.92 %
Poor

Cleanliness

42.15 %
Poor

Care

58.76 %
Average

Respect

50.18 %
Average

Seen on time

43.67 %
Poor

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MK

M K. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible medical experience with unprofessional staff

A truly subpar healthcare facility. The personnel demonstrate a severe lack of professionalism and courtesy.

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AA

Anonymous A. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Friendly staff made my experience great

The employees are top-notch and incredibly supportive in assisting customers.

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GP

Georgia P. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible service and staff blame patients for their mistakes

The reception staff were incredibly dismissive and refused to help me, even though they had failed to send crucial documents. After much difficulty, I finally managed to speak with the practice manager, who proceeded to berate me instead of offering assistance, questioning why I hadn't followed up on the missing documents. I explained to this discourteous individual that I had attempted to call multiple times but was always met with busy phone lines, and I asked why his employees hadn't simply done their job of sending the documents. His response was to blame me for not following up, maintaining his hostile attitude before reluctantly scheduling an appointment and abruptly ending the call. These are absolutely not the type of professionals you would want managing any medical concerns or interacting with at all - they seem so indifferent that you could inform them of a life-threatening situation and they would somehow find a way to hold you responsible and claim no availability. As a result, I am formally lodging a complaint with the NHS. Steer clear of this group of terrible employees at all costs

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AM

Az M. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care with a compassionate medical professional

I've been coming here for quite some time, and I can genuinely appreciate the noticeable progress made recently. The check-in process was quick and efficient. Dr. Richardson is an incredible professional who brings tremendous value to this medical practice, and I sincerely hope he continues to be a key part of the team!

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MQ

Marisa Q. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Great!

Ups and downs at my local medical practice

I've been a patient at the 157 Medical Practice for more than three years now. Initially, they were exceptional, and I was so impressed that I enthusiastically recommended them to my neighbors. The pandemic certainly disrupted their operations, which was likely a common experience across many healthcare providers. Their telephone system became particularly problematic, and the reduction in in-person consultations made accessing care incredibly challenging and frustrating. However, they are now making significant improvements. The doctors are punctual and genuinely attentive during consultations. Dr Richardson stands out as particularly outstanding - he consistently follows through on his commitments and demonstrates genuine compassion and understanding. Overall, I can confidently endorse this medical practice.

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CC

Cdlc87 C. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Great!

Empowering diabetic care with personalized insights

Just completed my diabetes consultation (JM) ... and it was truly enlightening. I gained insights into my health condition that I'd never understood previously. Now I'm able to track my medical journey with much greater clarity and understanding. I'm genuinely appreciative of this experience. Sending warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone.

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YS

Yr S. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Great!

Exceptional staff member saves practice from poor communication

The reception team's communication has significantly deteriorated over recent months. The service quality has noticeably declined, and getting anything done requires persistent follow-up. I frequently find myself making multiple phone calls because of their consistent communication failures. Despite these widespread issues, there is one exceptional staff member who stands out: Patricia. She is absolutely phenomenal and truly represents what excellent customer service should look like. Patricia is consistently professional, courteous, and meticulously respectful of patient confidentiality. When I need something handled, I specifically seek her out because I know she will complete tasks efficiently and thoroughly. Her dedication is so remarkable that I genuinely believe the practice would struggle without her support. While the other reception staff are disappointingly ineffective, the doctors themselves are excellent and provide the high-quality care you'd expect from a good medical practice. The reception team's performance significantly impacts patient perception, and Patricia single-handedly elevates this practice's reputation. I'm rating this practice 4 stars solely because of her outstanding work. Patricia, you are an incredible asset, and I hope the management recognizes your exceptional contributions.

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ML

Matthew L. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible service and negligent medical care avoid

I've been a patient at The 157 Medical Practice since childhood, and regrettably, the quality of care has steadily declined. Following my family Doctor's retirement, I've encountered numerous physicians - including one who absurdly claimed my chest pains were gym-related, basing this on my physical appearance despite my not having exercised in months, and without conducting any diagnostic tests. This represents clear medical negligence, and in retrospect, I should have filed a formal complaint. The administrative staff (with the exception of Patricia) urgently require a competency review. I've witnessed significant procedural failures, including their inability to communicate effectively among themselves, with doctors, and with the adjacent pharmacy. If financially possible, I strongly recommend seeking private healthcare or finding an alternative GP practice.

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CO

Cyrene O. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible reception staff destroy patient care experience

The reception staff demonstrate a shocking lack of professionalism and have completely forgotten their fundamental responsibility to provide compassionate care for ALL patients. These individuals should not be employed in this role if they lack a genuine desire to help others or show no interest in developing crucial skills like attention to detail, particularly when handling patient information. Certain staff members, like Joan (specifically the Joan without an accent), deliberately use evasive and unhelpful language designed to frustrate patients and intentionally obstruct their ability to access medical care. Joan is fully aware of her manipulative tactics and seemingly derives satisfaction from mistreating patients, especially those who might struggle with communication or have difficulty expressing themselves clearly. Her actions are particularly egregious when considering patients who are vulnerable or at high risk of self-harm. Her behavior is not just unprofessional but potentially dangerous and represents a serious systemic problem. Moreover, the internal communication among staff appears disjointed and inconsistent. It's truly unfortunate that while the doctors are pleasant, the reception team's conduct is the primary reason behind the clinic's increasingly negative reputation.

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DK

David K. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Sharmin made my vaccination experience truly exceptional

My vaccination appointment with Sharmin Begum was exceptional from the moment we met. Her professionalism and warmth were immediately apparent, and the actual vaccination was so smooth that I barely noticed it happening. What truly impressed me, however, was her genuine interest in my medical history. She carefully discussed each of my health conditions and collaboratively developed a comprehensive care strategy. Sharmin's remarkable ability to actively listen and ask thoughtful, probing questions truly set her apart. Her interpersonal skills are outstanding - she made me feel heard and valued as an individual, not just another patient. Despite being a long-time patient at this practice for over two decades, this was undoubtedly the most positive, constructive, and genuinely enjoyable healthcare interaction I've ever experienced. I am deeply grateful for Sharmin's compassionate and thorough approach to my care. Thank you so much.

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SF

Sylwia F. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Worst healthcare experience of my life

this healthcare facility is a complete disaster

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NL

Nicola L. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Average!

Disappointing healthcare experience after years of trust

Throughout my quarter-century as a patient, significant shifts have occurred beyond the pandemic. The most disheartening aspect is the complete lack of personal connection with any medical staff, despite managing a chronic health condition. I'm now at a point where I can't even recognize my own doctors. I'm eagerly anticipating a full reopening of the practice. After recently attending a flu clinic with an entertaining musical duo, enjoying refreshments, and observing staff wearing only masks (not full PPE), I'm genuinely perplexed about why telephone consultations remain the primary method of communication. The current approach seems inconsistent and disconnected from the in-person interactions patients like myself value.

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MS

Matthew S. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Receptionist saved the day with amazing service

The front desk staff member was incredibly supportive and attentive - though I didn't catch her name, she truly exceeded my expectations in providing assistance.

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JB

Jacquie B. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care for diabetes management done right

I was truly delighted with the comprehensive diabetes assessment performed for my aging mother. The healthcare professional demonstrated exceptional compassion and attentiveness, carefully walking us through each step of the examination. A special thanks to Joan for transforming what could have been a stressful medical consultation into a genuinely positive interaction.

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JJ

Jamilla J. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate and thorough asthma care from sharmin

During my asthma consultation, I met with Sharmin, who demonstrated exceptional expertise. She was incredibly attentive, patiently addressing all my questions and uncertainties with genuine compassion and clarity.

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BM

Benjy M. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care from a compassionate medical team

I found myself thoroughly impressed by this medical practice. Dr Dalziel in particular demonstrated remarkable efficiency in addressing a pressing and intricate health issue. The overall organization of the practice appears more streamlined compared to other healthcare providers I've encountered. I would confidently suggest this practice over alternative options in the Crouch End and Stroud Green areas. Delivering general practitioner services is undoubtedly demanding, particularly during the pandemic when many healthcare services have been significantly constrained in their operational capabilities.

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NK

Nickcolia K. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Friendly helper saved my covid vaccination day

I misplaced my documentation for my initial Covid vaccination and needed assistance scheduling my follow-up shot. Nazrine swiftly resolved my issue with exceptional efficiency and a radiant, welcoming demeanor. She was absolutely fantastic, and I cannot recommend her highly enough.

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TP

The P. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Great asthma care from a compassionate doctor

Fantastic general practitioner, whom I've been visiting for an extended period. Recently consulted with Sharmin Begum regarding my asthma management. She provided outstanding service and demonstrated exceptional compassion. I felt truly heard and sensed her sincere commitment to my well-being. Her approach was warm and incredibly supportive. Much appreciation to Mrs R Ahmed.

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ZB

Zehra B. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional diabetes care with compassionate doctor

Dr. Richardson has been incredibly supportive in helping me manage my diabetes and improve my overall health. His expert advice and guidance have been invaluable, and I'm truly grateful for his exceptional care. He's been absolutely wonderful! - Mohamed Bhimani

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PQ

Paula Q. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate doctor helps manage my chronic health challenges

I've been struggling with work-induced stress that has exacerbated my ongoing chronic pain and anxiety, compounded by additional health challenges. During my consultation with Dr Adrian Richardson today, I found him to be incredibly compassionate and supportive. Beyond simply adjusting my medication to address my pain management, he took a holistic approach by inquiring about various aspects of my life and offering practical coping strategies to alleviate both my physical discomfort and mental strain. What truly stood out was his genuine approach - I felt truly seen and valued as an individual, not just another patient in the system. I'm deeply appreciative of having a healthcare professional who demonstrates such genuine commitment to listening and providing comprehensive care. Dr Richardson is an exceptional representative of both his medical practice and the NHS, embodying the very best of patient-centered healthcare.

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About the GP

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

Contact Information

  • 020 72728823
  • The 157 Medical Practice 157 Stroud Green Road Finsbury Park London N4 3PZ

Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a mixed experience at this practice, with significant variation in service quality across different areas. Reception experience emerges as a key concern, with multiple patients reporting discourteous interactions, poor communication, and administrative failures that have deterred them from using the service. Appointment access and booking remain problematic, with patients describing lengthy waiting times for consultations and difficulty reaching the practice by phone. However, several patients have praised specific medical professionals for their compassionate care, attentive listening, and thorough examinations, suggesting that clinical care quality is inconsistent across the team.

The practice appears to be undergoing transition, with some recent improvements noted by returning patients who report better organisation and more responsive staff. Positive feedback frequently highlights individual practitioners and reception staff members who demonstrate genuine commitment to patient-centred care. Conversely, negative reviews consistently cite reception discourtesy, administrative disorganisation, and poor responsiveness to patient needs as barriers to accessing care. Communication between departments and with patients remains a significant weakness, with reports of lost referrals and delayed follow-up.

While medical expertise and professional conduct are praised in several reviews, systemic issues around appointment availability, reception courtesy, and organisational efficiency continue to undermine the overall patient experience. The practice would benefit from addressing these operational challenges to match the quality of care provided by its clinical staff.

Appointment

45.23 %
Poor

Reception

48.92 %
Poor

Cleanliness

42.15 %
Poor

Care

58.76 %
Average

Respect

50.18 %
Average

Seen on time

43.67 %
Poor
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