Patient Experience Summary

Appointment access remains the most significant challenge reported across feedback, with patients describing lengthy waits, difficulty reaching the practice by phone, and complex online booking systems that frequently result in rejection or capacity messages. Many patients report being redirected to alternative services such as 111 or walk-in centres rather than securing GP appointments, creating frustration when seeking routine or urgent care. Reception experience is mixed, with some patients noting dismissive or discourteous interactions, though others have praised individual staff members for their professionalism and helpfulness.

When consultations do occur, clinical care quality receives more positive recognition, with patients appreciating compassionate doctors who provide clear explanations and thorough examinations. However, concerns emerge around communication failures, including missed test results, incomplete medical notes, and inconsistent follow-up. Administrative processes show recurring problems such as disorganised record-keeping, delayed referrals, and unclear information about available services, contributing to patient frustration and loss of confidence in the practice.

The practice appears to operate under significant capacity constraints, with patients noting deterioration in service standards over recent years. While some patients report positive individual experiences with punctual appointments and responsive care, the predominant pattern reflects systemic challenges in appointment availability, booking processes, and organisational efficiency that affect patient access to healthcare.

Appointment

15.20 %
Bad

Reception

22.30 %
Bad

Cleanliness

62.40 %
Average

Care

35.60 %
Poor

Respect

24.15 %
Bad

Seen on time

32.50 %
Bad

Filter

AA

Artur A. Google one year ago

Rating

Bad!

Awful Service and Unhelpful Online Booking

The quality has significantly declined since they implemented their new online booking system, rendering the reception staff completely ineffective. I'm dealing with a severe back issue that leaves me barely able to walk, with my leg and lower body completely numb and my feet aching with every step. After submitting my form, I received a response stating they're fully booked, essentially suggesting that someone with my condition isn't important enough to be seen. I simply wanted a phone consultation to obtain a referral for a medical scan, but received absolutely nothing. As a telling side note, since transitioning to online booking, they've added a recorded message claiming they reserve the right to hang up due to patient aggression - well, of course people become frustrated when they're unable to access the healthcare service they're paying for! I'm immediately switching to a different medical practice.

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DW

Deb W. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Average!

Yoda-Filled Room Helped Me Relax

I underwent a blood test recently, and despite waiting over half an hour past my scheduled time, I have absolutely no complaints about the nurse. She was incredibly warm, humorous, and helped me feel completely relaxed. Her office was wonderfully decorated with an impressive collection of Yoda and Groot figurines, which totally caught my attention. Her engaging environment and friendly demeanor were so distracting that the blood draw was completed before I could even start feeling anxious. I genuinely hope more healthcare professionals could be as exceptional as she is. Her approach transformed what could have been a stressful medical appointment into a genuinely pleasant experience.

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NN

Nigel N. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible Surgery and Unhelpful Staff

Absolutely the most terrible surgical experience I've encountered, with an incredibly unprofessional staff! They even refused to provide contact information for the practice manager when I wanted to file a complaint! Giving this place one star is far too generous for such a disastrous medical practice!!

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ME

Melissa E. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Impossible to See a Doctor When Sick

I'm utterly disgusted by the callous attitude of the medical staff at this practice, who seem to think it's acceptable to dismiss patients with automated text messages whenever I attempt to schedule an appointment. Even when I try to reach out to the reception, my calls go unanswered. I'm unable to secure a medical consultation for my sick 4-year-old or myself, despite struggling with health issues for three months now. We cannot continue to tolerate such negligence from healthcare providers who are handsomely compensated for what appears to be doing absolutely nothing. Patients deserve far more compassionate and responsive care than this!

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DD

Debby D. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Wendy made a tough office visit better

While the clinic's policies leave something to be desired, I understand they're likely overwhelmed with patients. I want to specifically highlight Wendy, the receptionist. As someone who frequently accompanies my friend to this medical practice, I've witnessed various challenges, but Wendy stands out as an exceptional professional. She consistently demonstrates kindness, goes out of her way to be helpful, and never displays the typical dismissive attitude that's unfortunately common among medical office staff. Her approach is truly refreshing and noteworthy.

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LP

Lyndsey P. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible Care for My Sick Dad

Completely appalling how my father has been handled, prescribed antibiotics and advised by a physician to follow up if the medication proves ineffective. Initially everything seemed fine, but upon calling back, we were informed that the doctor couldn't simply adjust the prescription and we'd need to complete another consultation form, which could take up to two days to process. My dad, suffering from COPD and a chest infection, is in a vulnerable state. This medical practice is an absolute mockery of healthcare.

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DR

Dave R. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Rejected Twice by Terrible Thorndike Surgery

This medical practice is absolutely dreadful. I reside in Rochester, and despite living on High Street, I'm forced to seek medical care in Higham. On two separate occasions, Thorndike surgery has dismissed me, claiming I've relocated outside their service area. Anyone considering this GP should definitely read the other patient experiences!!

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MM

Mark M. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Tragic Loss After Appointment with Dr K

This Medical Facility is utterly unacceptable and should be permanently shuttered. Let me be clear: I brought my Mother to consult Dr. K, and within a week of that visit, she passed away. What kind of healing is that?

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JP

J P. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Refused NHS Appointment at Local Clinic

I've been directed to a private pharmacy after seeking an NHS appointment, which is completely unacceptable. The entire situation is utterly reprehensible and represents a fundamental breach of medical care standards. This amounts to nothing short of professional misconduct and negligence.

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F(

Frankie (. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Long Wait Times and No Help

Terrible experience with this healthcare provider. Impossible to schedule a consultation, only offered a slow triage process. ABSOLUTELY AVOID

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KB

Kristina B. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible customer service at midnight

Absolutely the most terrible experience imaginable across the entire universe

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SP

Sue P. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and Smooth Service at the Clinic

Friendly staff. Quick service and impressively efficient setup

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TW

Trevor W. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Unhelpful Doctor Dismissed My Daughter's Urgent Concerns

Absolutely no concern for my child's well-being, just robotically reciting a standard procedure. They insisted I fill out a form after 9am and promised a response within a day or two. Completely indifferent to the fact that I was seeking immediate, critical guidance.

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DV

Diana V. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Long Wait Drove Me Crazy

Endured an endless wait from Thursday the 9th of November, received a triage but by Monday the 13th, absolutely zero progress! Spent a grueling hour on hold, and yes, I captured proof. Attempted another call later, only to find myself 8th in line on the selection screen '5'. This medical practice is utterly disappointing, to say the least.

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LM

Linda M. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Impossible to Get Care for My Sick Child

I'd give this place a negative rating if I could! Getting an appointment here is practically impossible, especially for a young child suffering from an ear infection. The NHS seems completely useless at this point - I'm utterly baffled by their complete lack of basic healthcare accessibility.

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JC

Jamie C. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Two-Week Wait for a Doctor's Appointment

My girlfriend recently registered here and is now facing a frustrating two-and-a-half-week wait just to secure a doctor's appointment. Attempting to book a slot is nearly impossible. I persistently called right before their opening hours, only to be stuck in a 45-minute queue with 10 other callers. When a receptionist finally answered, she curtly informed me that they were fully booked for the day, referencing a supposed message I never actually heard while waiting. Her attitude was incredibly dismissive. Their online booking system is equally problematic. They claim you can schedule appointments online, but first require sending login credentials - which they inexplicably mail through postal service, as if it were still the 1990s. Despite requesting these details three separate times, I never received them. The staff's customer service is shockingly poor, and they seem eager to redirect patients to the Gillingham Walk-in Centre at every opportunity, showing minimal concern for patients' needs.

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TT

Tommy T. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible Service, Total Waste of Time

Complete waste of time and money. No further explanation needed.

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B8

Bjorn 8. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Longtime Customer Feels Appreciated

Received exceptional care and service for an extended period. Truly outstanding!

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ML

Maggie L. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Impossible to Get a Doctor's Appointment Here

Called the medical center this morning seeking a consultation. They informed me no slots were open due to being completely booked. Then they suggested I contact 111 to potentially schedule an appointment at their facility. When I rang 111, they were keen to dispatch an emergency vehicle, which I considered completely disproportionate to my medical situation. I've been unable to secure a general practitioner appointment at this surgery for close to two years now. The whole situation is utterly absurd.

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HB

Hazel B. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and Helpful Monday Consultation

I'm grateful to the wonderful young physician I consulted with today. She demonstrated exceptional kindness and provided tremendous support. I completed the online consultation on Monday and was seen in person today!

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About the GP

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

Contact Information

  • 01634 817217
  • Thorndike Medical Centre Longley Road Rochester Kent ME1 2TH

Patient Experience Summary

Appointment access remains the most significant challenge reported across feedback, with patients describing lengthy waits, difficulty reaching the practice by phone, and complex online booking systems that frequently result in rejection or capacity messages. Many patients report being redirected to alternative services such as 111 or walk-in centres rather than securing GP appointments, creating frustration when seeking routine or urgent care. Reception experience is mixed, with some patients noting dismissive or discourteous interactions, though others have praised individual staff members for their professionalism and helpfulness.

When consultations do occur, clinical care quality receives more positive recognition, with patients appreciating compassionate doctors who provide clear explanations and thorough examinations. However, concerns emerge around communication failures, including missed test results, incomplete medical notes, and inconsistent follow-up. Administrative processes show recurring problems such as disorganised record-keeping, delayed referrals, and unclear information about available services, contributing to patient frustration and loss of confidence in the practice.

The practice appears to operate under significant capacity constraints, with patients noting deterioration in service standards over recent years. While some patients report positive individual experiences with punctual appointments and responsive care, the predominant pattern reflects systemic challenges in appointment availability, booking processes, and organisational efficiency that affect patient access to healthcare.

Appointment

15.20 %
Bad

Reception

22.30 %
Bad

Cleanliness

62.40 %
Average

Care

35.60 %
Poor

Respect

24.15 %
Bad

Seen on time

32.50 %
Bad
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