Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a deeply polarised experience at this practice, with significant challenges in appointment access and reception experience contrasting sharply with positive feedback about clinical care. Many patients report substantial difficulties securing appointments, with common complaints about lengthy waiting times for bookings, restrictive phone-in systems requiring calls at precise times, and extended gaps between initial contact and available slots. Reception experience emerges as a critical concern, with multiple reports of discourteous, dismissive, and unhelpful staff interactions, though some patients praise individual receptionists for exceptional support. Communication issues are frequently cited, including poor follow-up, unresponsive staff, and inadequate explanation of procedures or requirements.

Where clinical care is discussed positively, patients commend the professionalism, thoroughness, and compassion of nursing staff and certain doctors, with particular appreciation for those who demonstrate attentiveness and provide clear explanations. However, negative clinical feedback includes concerns about rushed consultations, inadequate examinations, and instances where patients felt their concerns were dismissed or not properly investigated. The practice environment receives mixed reviews, with some patients noting welcoming and well-designed waiting areas whilst others describe it as cramped and unreliable.

The overall picture suggests systemic pressures affecting service delivery, with appointment availability and reception courtesy representing the most consistent sources of patient dissatisfaction, whilst clinical expertise and nursing support are frequently highlighted as strengths when patients successfully access care.

Appointment

28.64 %
Bad

Reception

35.42 %
Poor

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

48.73 %
Poor

Respect

38.91 %
Poor

Seen on time

32.18 %
Bad

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SS

Simplysa S. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care and compassion at its best

For the past 15 years, I've been a patient at this medical practice, and I cannot overstate how appreciative I am of the outstanding care and service I've consistently received. From the front desk staff to the physicians, every team member has worked tirelessly to ensure each visit is a positive and comfortable experience. The reception team is invariably warm and considerate, treating my family with genuine respect during both in-person and telephone interactions. They create an immediate sense of ease the moment you arrive or reach out. Despite their often hectic schedules, they always prioritize addressing concerns and efficiently scheduling appointments at the earliest opportunity. The physicians here are truly exceptional. They demonstrate a profound commitment to patient care, always ready to listen and provide not just medical guidance, but emotional support and reassurance. During appointments, I never feel rushed; instead, they meticulously explain medical details, ensuring I completely understand my health status and available treatment options, whether in-person or via telephone consultations. The consistent, high-quality care I've experienced here has significantly impacted my overall well-being. It's evident that every staff member is genuinely dedicated to patient health, and I am profoundly grateful for their unwavering commitment. In an era where healthcare professionals' hard work often goes unrecognized, I want to sincerely acknowledge the incredible team at this surgery. Thank you for the remarkable care you've provided throughout the years. Your dedication is deeply valued and appreciated!

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PS

Paidamoyo S. Google one year ago

Rating

Poor!

Disappointing medical experience with unhelpful doctor

I've visited this physician twice, and their approach seems cold and uninterested. When I seek medical help, I expect guidance, not to be interrogated about my expectations. If I already knew the precise nature of my condition, why would I even need a doctor? Their focus appears narrowly limited, forcing me to be forceful in order to discuss my full range of symptoms. The entire experience feels frustratingly unproductive, and I'm left feeling that consulting this doctor is essentially an exercise in futility.

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CP

Caroline P. Google one year ago

Rating

Excellent!

Perfect healthcare for my whole family

This medical practice is exceptional, and I'm completely satisfied with their service. They consistently accommodate my entire family's healthcare needs with minimal waiting times, and the medical staff are highly skilled and meticulous. The front desk team is welcoming and easy to interact with. My sincere appreciation goes out to Village Surgery ❤️

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JG

Joy G. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care that truly saved my health

Throughout the recent period, I've had multiple interactions with the medical practice for different health matters. The nursing staff promptly accommodated me, conducting blood tests and arranging an ultrasound referral which ultimately led to additional diagnostic work and a surgical procedure requiring general anesthesia. More recently, I consulted Dr Ateaque, who has been equally exceptional - demonstrating remarkable thoroughness, ordering appropriate imaging, developing a comprehensive treatment strategy, and providing a precise explanation of my medical condition.

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AR

Aleksandra R. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Frustrated patient trapped in medical runaround nightmare

I've been struggling with the same symptoms for two years, and all I get is a runaround between my GP and the hospital. They keep prescribing medications without properly examining me. I've had so many blood tests that my arm is bruised from the constant drawing of blood. I've only had a single urine test, and my condition is deteriorating daily. My GP keeps alternating between prescribing antibiotics and recommending ibuprofen. I'm exhausted by this cycle. Today, the doctor called me, only to say they can't help and suggest I go to the hospital. At the hospital, they tell me to return to my GP. I'm experiencing blood in my urine and severe headaches, and doctors keep mentioning the possibility of a brain tumor without taking any concrete steps to investigate. I've counted over 25 antibiotic prescriptions in the past two years. Why? I'm fed up with taking antibiotics, ibuprofen, and undergoing blood tests that reveal nothing. These are just the tests I've found documentation for, and who knows how many others I've had. Can someone please help me? I'm tired, and my symptoms are not improving at all.

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AM

Adam M. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Caring doctor who truly listens and helps patients

Takes care of me during challenging times. Healthcare system is under pressure, but if you're not satisfied, you can seek alternatives. I have no complaints whatsoever. Dr. Shearman is absolutely fantastic.

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VB

Verity B. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Poor!

Terrible service led to missed shingles diagnosis

This medical practice has significantly declined in quality. Booking an appointment now requires a phone call instead of online scheduling. I contacted the doctor twice regarding neck, shoulder, and arm pain. Initially, they dismissed it as a muscular issue and recommended pain medication. During my second call, I had developed a terrible rash extending from my neck down my arm. The physician suggested the pain could persist for two weeks and offered stronger painkillers, but consistently refused to schedule an appointment. After enduring five days of excruciating discomfort, I went to the emergency room and was diagnosed with Shingles. I'm hoping the medication will provide immediate relief and prevent long-term complications. I am definitively leaving this practice. Now, experiencing shingles symptoms for the second time, I requested antiviral medication but was denied due to the requirement of an in-person appointment which they could not provide. Am I expected to suffer through shingles complications and pain again because of the surgery's complete lack of compassion and medical responsiveness?

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CS

Caz S. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Great care despite nhs challenges at this practice

Ignore the negative comments you might read. The front desk staff are absolutely delightful, and the doctors are attentive and provide excellent care. Despite the NHS facing significant challenges, I've consistently received top-notch treatment at this practice. Highly recommended! 5 stars 🌟

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AF

Adrian F. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Worst medical practice ever desperate patients beware

I sought an electronic consultation for a pressing health matter and was instructed to schedule an in-person appointment, only to be given a slot four weeks out despite clearly communicating the urgency of my situation. This medical practice used to be acceptable, but after discussing experiences with local acquaintances, I now consider it unquestionably the most inadequate healthcare provider in the region. While I understand the current challenges facing the NHS, this facility is overwhelmingly characterized by sheer incompetence. I'm uncertain whether this stems from genuine mismanagement or calculated opportunism by physicians who are deliberately overloading their patient roster. As a result, after more than two decades of loyalty, I am now actively seeking to transfer my medical care elsewhere.

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AR

Amy R. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible gp service with unhelpful and dismissive staff

Absolutely dreadful service. They refuse appointments booked through 111, forcing me to call directly when econsult was full. When I requested a face-to-face appointment within 3 days, as recommended by 111, the receptionist told me to call back at 8am the next day. Upon explaining I couldn't, I was bluntly asked "why" - which is completely inappropriate and none of their business. I've been given a phone consultation where a doctor will determine next steps, but was warned they'll only call once. As a receptionist myself, I know this is far from acceptable professional practice. I've never had an in-person doctor's appointment here. Even worse, they prescribed a controlled medication through econsult without allowing me to discuss potential side effects or provide input. I knew this medication would cause problems, yet had no opportunity to decline or explore alternatives. Unsurprisingly, I experienced the exact side effects I anticipated and stopped taking it when no follow-up was scheduled. It seems the receptionists are deliberately isolating the doctors, and there's no communication between reception and pharmacy. My advice: avoid this practice completely if you have any medical emergency or need genuine healthcare support. Look elsewhere for competent medical care.

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WY

William Y. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible experience with unprofessional and uncaring medical staff

The medical professionals at this practice are absolutely terrible, and as a first-time patient, I've never experienced such subpar healthcare. Their treatment and approach are completely unacceptable, leaving me thoroughly disappointed and frustrated with the entire experience.

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VK

Victoria K. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Quick and easy medical support saves the day

I've only had a single interaction with this service so far, and I'll continue to share my thoughts, but I'm puzzled by the numerous negative reviews. I contacted their support today, and they promptly processed my registration. Shortly after, I received a phone consultation with a wonderful physician who reached out within a few hours and readily prescribed the medication I required.

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SE

Steve E. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Average!

Nostalgic memories of a changing landscape

I was thoroughly impressed with this establishment. Eventually, we'll uncover the full story of what transpired during those tumultuous years (beyond and following the pandemic) - it seems like nothing functions properly anymore, does it? Welcome to the new United Kingdom. A nation reduced to third-world status.

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FG

F4 G. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Poor!

Terrible customer service at this medical office

Unaccommodating, occasionally rather temperamental front desk staff.

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MG

Maryanne G. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate care in challenging times for nhs

I take issue with some of the previous comments. The National Health Service is currently operating under extreme pressure. The healthcare workers are ordinary individuals with personal lives and difficulties, just like the rest of us, and they genuinely strive to provide assistance. During my recent interaction, the receptionist was exceptional. She went above and beyond to support me within the constraints of her available resources. I urge everyone to show compassion and appreciation for our healthcare professionals - they are absolutely essential, and we would be in a dire situation without their dedicated service!

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GP

Gina P. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible receptionist ruins healthcare experience completely

The communication here was utterly deplorable, particularly from one specific receptionist. I've attempted multiple times to schedule appointments for my partner, and I genuinely question her suitability for a customer-facing role. Her behavior was characterized by constant interruptions, a dismissive attitude, and an overtly frustrated vocal tone. I've never encountered such abysmal interpersonal skills from someone working in healthcare. She displayed absolutely no empathy or compassion towards individuals seeking medical assistance and support. The practice should seriously implement call recording to document her unprofessional conduct, as she consistently avoids identifying herself and either terminates calls or redirects patients back into endless queuing systems. It's astounding that a medical practice would allow such an individual to represent their organization. Without doubt, this has been the most horrendous telephone interaction I've ever experienced.

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DH

Dav H. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Worst receptionist ever ruins medical practice experience

The receptionist at this practice is unbearably discourteous. She answers calls with a curt "hello" and consistently cuts me off mid-sentence, even hanging up when I attempt to address her interruptions. When I requested her name, she deliberately withheld it. Having interacted with her multiple times while trying to schedule appointments, I've found her consistently unprofessional and dismissive, acting as though assisting patients is an inconvenience. Her attitude significantly tarnishes the reputation of The Village Surgery, and as a result, I am now seeking a different local GP. Her behavior has completely undermined my trust in this medical practice. Fortunately, during a subsequent call, I spoke with a delightful staff member named Steph, who was exceptionally helpful and professional. It's clear we need more individuals like Steph who understand the importance of compassionate customer service.

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SH

Sue H. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Dangerous medical decision hurts vulnerable elderly patient

You have truly outdone yourselves this time!! A physician chose to discontinue a critical medication for a fragile 84-year-old patient they had never encountered or consulted, solely based on medical records from 2002 and 2007 when she was not taking the medication. They consulted with the care home staff, who had only known her for three months and were unaware of the medication's purpose. HER FAMILY UNDERSTOOD THE REASON, BUT APPARENTLY, CONSULTING FAMILY IS NOT STANDARD PRACTICE!! As a result, this precious 84-year-old has endured horrific symptoms since August 3rd. Absolutely appalling, and thankfully, she will not remain under your care long-term.

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TS

Theresajokeinthere S. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible customer service and communication nightmare

Impossible to reach anyone. They claim the doctors contacted me, but I've been holding my phone all day and never received a single call! Scheduling an in-person appointment seems completely out of the question. Steer clear of this place and look for alternative healthcare providers.

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AL

Angie L. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible service and zero communication from surgery staff

The surgical practice is terrible, and I'm uncertain about their pre-COVID performance, but during lockdowns and since then, reaching them has been extremely challenging. When you finally manage to contact them, they promise to follow up, yet never do. It seems there's not a single compassionate individual in the entire practice, and the receptionists are particularly discourteous and completely unhelpful.

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Trusted by GP practices across the UK
Practice Response Rate
0.00%

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About the GP

  • Accepts all feedback, both positive and negative.

Contact Information

  • 01202 525252
  • The Village Surgery Gillett Rd,Talbot Village Poole Dorset BH12 5BF

Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reveals a deeply polarised experience at this practice, with significant challenges in appointment access and reception experience contrasting sharply with positive feedback about clinical care. Many patients report substantial difficulties securing appointments, with common complaints about lengthy waiting times for bookings, restrictive phone-in systems requiring calls at precise times, and extended gaps between initial contact and available slots. Reception experience emerges as a critical concern, with multiple reports of discourteous, dismissive, and unhelpful staff interactions, though some patients praise individual receptionists for exceptional support. Communication issues are frequently cited, including poor follow-up, unresponsive staff, and inadequate explanation of procedures or requirements.

Where clinical care is discussed positively, patients commend the professionalism, thoroughness, and compassion of nursing staff and certain doctors, with particular appreciation for those who demonstrate attentiveness and provide clear explanations. However, negative clinical feedback includes concerns about rushed consultations, inadequate examinations, and instances where patients felt their concerns were dismissed or not properly investigated. The practice environment receives mixed reviews, with some patients noting welcoming and well-designed waiting areas whilst others describe it as cramped and unreliable.

The overall picture suggests systemic pressures affecting service delivery, with appointment availability and reception courtesy representing the most consistent sources of patient dissatisfaction, whilst clinical expertise and nursing support are frequently highlighted as strengths when patients successfully access care.

Appointment

28.64 %
Bad

Reception

35.42 %
Poor

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

48.73 %
Poor

Respect

38.91 %
Poor

Seen on time

32.18 %
Bad
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