The Weardale Practice

Helpful receptionist made all the difference

I recently called the practice and spoke with a member of the reception team who was exceptionally understanding and provided helpful assistance. I was genuinely grateful for their support. Thank you.

Quick response to my online form

Excellent service, submitted an online consultation in the morning, received a phone call within minutes and had an appointment scheduled for a couple of hours afterwards.

Online forms repeatedly unavailable and unhelpful

Extremely disappointing experience. The practice seems unable to provide meaningful assistance with any issues. Every response amounts to either directing me to call 111 or requesting that I complete a form. This pattern has repeated consistently across multiple visits. When attempting to submit the required forms, I encountered repeated technical issues stating they were unavailable. Additionally, I was not initially informed that these forms need to be submitted promptly, as they close once capacity is reached. I only discovered this important detail after spending considerable time trying to resolve the matter, when someone explained it during a phone conversation.

Online booking system leaves no appointments available

Obtaining an appointment at this practice proves extremely challenging. The reception staff consistently direct patients to complete an online form at 8am, though by the time other commitments are managed, the available slots have already been taken. Calling for assistance yields little support or alternative solutions. The experience has been sufficiently frustrating that I have chosen to avoid seeking medical care at this practice for an extended period.

Staff attitudes vary at this practice

I'm uncertain about what has changed regarding the consistency of care, but this practice appears to lack continuity. While certain team members are genuinely supportive, others have been unhelpful. My treatment over the past year has been significantly disrupted, and recent events have been particularly disappointing. Should the practice leadership wish to reach out to discuss these concerns, I would be open to that conversation.

First visit went smoothly and on time

It was my first visit to the surgery today. I was very impressed. Both members of staff I saw were wonderful, professional, attentive and kind. Even though the practice was busy, everything ran smoothly and appointments stayed on schedule. Very well done to the surgery, I cannot praise you highly enough.

Reception staff were dismissive and unhelpful

I contacted the practice on behalf of my partner and felt the response I received was dismissive and unhelpful. I found the interaction with reception staff to be lacking in empathy and professionalism. Additionally, I was concerned about the accuracy of the initial assessment, which led to a hospital admission. Based on my experience, I would hesitate to recommend this practice to others, as I felt the standard of care fell short of expectations.

Dismissed concerns led to serious complications

I recently attended an appointment regarding a skin condition that I believed had been misidentified. Shortly afterwards, I experienced a serious health issue that required hospitalisation for several days, during which I had multiple medical episodes.

Online booking system left me frustrated

The appointment booking process has been frustrating. I was instructed to complete an online form to secure an appointment, but the online system appears to be unavailable. I was advised to attempt the form in the morning, however due to my night shift schedule, I would not be available until the afternoon when the system may no longer be accessible. At this rate, it seems unlikely I will be able to book an appointment for several days.

Repeat prescription system feels unnecessarily complicated

Why does requesting a repeat prescription feel like it is no longer a repeat prescription? Previously, I could simply visit the pharmacy and have my prescription filled without needing to ask for it beforehand. It was a straightforward process that functioned well. What prompted this change to the system?

Staff treated us with genuine warmth and care

My wife and I have nothing but positive things to say about this practice. The team consistently demonstrates courtesy, warmth and professionalism in their approach. They are a real asset to the NHS and we would highly recommend them.

Helpful and caring approach to our daughter's care

The practice has provided excellent care for our child and we have consistently received high-quality service whenever required. We are very grateful.

Staff attitude made the visit unpleasant

The service provided was disappointing, and the staff interaction was not pleasant.

Missed callback left me frustrated and confused

I had submitted an online request for medication that required a review to be completed first. I was expecting a call back regarding this matter. A call came through today, but I was unable to answer it, and unfortunately no voicemail or message was left to explain who was calling or what it was regarding. I found this frustrating and am quite dissatisfied with how this was handled.

Long phone wait made me give up

I attempted to reach the practice by telephone but experienced a lengthy wait before giving up on the call.

Poor communication between staff members

The practice caused unnecessary stress and frustration due to poor communication between staff members. One clinician suggested contacting the surgery if additional medication was needed, but when attempting to do so, we were told this could not be arranged without an in-person appointment.

Long waits and poor service every visit

On each occasion that I have visited this practice, my experience has consistently been disappointing in terms of the service provided.

Helpful GPs who really listen to you

Good service with understanding healthcare professionals. The clinical team were genuinely helpful and made a real difference to my care.

Friendly reception and quick appointment booking

Positive experience overall

Hard to book appointments at this practice

The team here are approachable and supportive, however securing an appointment with the practice can be challenging. Patients are often advised to rebook once the upcoming schedule becomes available. While urgent matters can be addressed by an emergency clinician, the ability to see a preferred healthcare professional or arrange timely appointments for significant health concerns appears to have become less feasible.