Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reflects a mixed experience across appointment access, reception service, and clinical care. Many patients report positive interactions with doctors, describing attentive and thorough medical approaches that have led to accurate diagnoses and effective treatment. Appointment availability through the walk-in clinic is valued, with some patients securing same-day consultations. However, significant challenges emerge around phone accessibility, with repeated complaints about engaged lines, unanswered calls, and difficulty reaching reception to book appointments in advance. Reception experience is inconsistent, ranging from warm and supportive interactions to instances of unprofessional behaviour and dismissive attitudes. Long waiting times at the walk-in clinic during peak hours and extended gaps between available appointment slots are noted concerns.

Communication breakdowns appear in multiple contexts, including poor notification of appointment cancellations and confusion over booking procedures. Some patients report frustration with referral processes and medication renewal procedures, while others praise responsive communication and prompt callback services. The practice's ability to deliver clinical care is generally well-regarded, though reception and administrative processes create barriers to accessing that care.

Overall, the practice demonstrates strong clinical capability but faces operational challenges that impact patient experience, particularly around phone lines, appointment scheduling flexibility, and consistency in reception service delivery.

Appointment

48.67 %
Poor

Reception

54.32 %
Average

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

75.28 %
Great

Respect

58.94 %
Average

Seen on time

52.15 %
Average

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GH

Garth H. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Incredible doctor who truly cares

An unparalleled general practitioner experience that truly sets the gold standard for medical care.

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CC

Claudette C. Google 2 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Woodlands medical practice truly exceptional and compassionate

At my age of 62, I've encountered numerous GP Practices, but Woodlands truly stands out as exceptional! The reception staff are remarkably compassionate, understanding, and make each patient feel genuinely valued, unlike the impersonal experiences I've previously endured. Every doctor we've consulted has been equally warm and empathetic. Other medical practices could learn so much from Woodlands' approach to patient care and professional compassion. This is an outstanding team across the board - they absolutely deserve recognition for their outstanding service and commitment to patient well-being.

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PC

Pamela C. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional service from a caring receptionist today

I recently had a delightful interaction with the receptionist, who was not only incredibly pleasant but also remarkably adept at addressing all of my questions. Her professional and compassionate approach made resolving my concerns a smooth and positive experience. Much appreciation for her excellent service.

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HJ

Hayley J. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Woodlands surgery a lifesaver for busy parents

As a parent of two small kids, I've consistently been able to secure medical consultations whenever necessary. The administrative team, doctors, and nursing staff are consistently courteous and exceptionally supportive. I'm well aware of the immense challenges facing primary care practices, and Woodlands continues to excel despite these pressures!

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LS

Lynn S. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Fantastic medical care with prompt and friendly service

Exceptional medical procedure performed by top-tier physicians and incredibly efficient, supportive front desk staff. I've consistently been able to secure same-day appointments whenever necessary. Absolutely no grounds for criticism. Truly outstanding service.

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LL

Laura L. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional healthcare at woodlands medical centre

Throughout my interactions with the practice, which have been occasional rather than frequent, I've encountered various physicians. Each doctor has consistently demonstrated empathy, expertise, and accessibility. Notwithstanding the evident challenges currently facing general practitioners and their team, my family and I have invariably secured prompt appointments and received exceptional care. Woodlands surgery stands out as the premier medical facility in the region, and to date, I have absolutely no complaints about their patient services and treatment quality.

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AS

Anna S. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Unhelpful staff leaves patient frustrated and without medication

Despite my usual praise for this surgery's exceptional care and attentiveness, today's experience was deeply frustrating. When I called to explain my ongoing app issues and the fact that I've run out of medication after multiple unsuccessful attempts last week, I reluctantly sought help from reception as previously recommended by my GP. Instead of assistance, Emily essentially accused me of fabricating my problems, dismissively stating that thousands of patients use the chemist. I tried to elaborate on the challenges I've faced, explaining how I've spent nearly three hours trying to reach the doctors and that the chemist's phone line is perpetually busy. I'm now left feeling completely abandoned, with no clear path to obtaining my essential medications. This interaction has left me utterly disheartened and disappointed in a service I once held in high regard.

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GE

Gemma E. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Terrible service and no customer support

Can't ever reach anyone by phone. Their contact line is completely useless. Total waste of time.

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AA

Anastasia A. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Compassionate doctor who truly cares about patients

Dr. Balaji is truly exceptional! Being a parent of two young children, I found him to be incredibly attentive and responsive to every concern I raised. He consistently went above and beyond to address my questions and provide the most helpful guidance possible. I wholeheartedly endorse this medical practice. Their scheduling is top-notch, with appointments readily available and immediate slots for urgent consultations when necessary.

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CD

Christo D. Google 3 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Exceptional care and compassion at woodlands primary

I'm compelled to share my exceptional experience with Woodlands Primary Care. Over the past fortnight, I battled a challenging chest infection that necessitated two antibiotic courses and a salbutamol inhaler. Dr Lewis was phenomenal throughout my treatment, personally ensuring I was seen twice and meticulously confirming my chest had fully cleared. Moreover, the reception staff deserve immense credit - they consistently demonstrate remarkable helpfulness and professionalism, even while managing overwhelming workloads. My sincere gratitude goes out to the entire Woodlands team for their outstanding care and support.

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AU

Anonymous U. Google 4 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Frustrated patient seeks proper medical care now

I'm continuously frustrated by doctors promising referrals but never following through. For over seven months, I've been dealing with a significant health issue, and despite four consultations with my GP, they remain unable to provide meaningful assistance. While I understand they're generalists with restricted expertise, a straightforward referral would have connected me with a specialist who has in-depth knowledge about my specific condition. I'm increasingly irritated by general practitioners who seem to believe they're all-knowing, particularly when they appear more focused on prescribing medications for financial gain rather than addressing patient needs. As a result, I'm now forced to seek private healthcare and spend an excessive amount of money to address this problem. Thanks a lot, NHS 👍🏽.

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RW

Rosemary W. Google 5 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Reliable service that never lets me down

Never disappoints me!

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GG

Graham G. Google 6 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Life-saving doctor detected my hidden cancer

Thanks to the attentive physician at this medical center, I'm fortunate to be alive today. What initially seemed like a simple back pain was actually a serious case of Bowel Cancer. The doctor's thorough approach and decision to run critical tests ultimately saved my life.

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NC

Nigel C. Google 6 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Loyal customer through ups and downs

Throughout my two decades with this company, I've experienced some ups and downs, but overall they've treated me fairly and maintained a decent relationship.

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RF

Robert F. Google 7 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Great service with caring and attentive staff

I've been involved with this place since my mother signed up, and I've interacted with them multiple times through phone calls and in-person visits. Their staff consistently demonstrates a warm and supportive demeanor. Whenever I've requested a return call, they've been prompt in getting back to me. Each of my interactions has been comfortable and positive.

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DS

Denis S. Google 7 years ago

Rating

Great!

Woodlands surgery above and beyond patient expectations

I get incredibly frustrated when patients grumble about appointment wait times, as if they're the sole individuals trying to secure medical attention. One needs to consider the total patient load divided by the number of doctors to understand the scheduling challenges. But why fret? Unlike many other practices, Woodlands offers a daily walk-in clinic, which is absolutely fantastic. If patients could call and secure an appointment within a couple of hours, they'd be ecstatic. The ability to arrive around 10 AM and be seen by noon is genuinely convenient. From my perspective, and that of my family members who have experience with multiple medical practices, this surgery stands head and shoulders above the rest in every possible way.

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AH

Aarron H. Google 8 years ago

Rating

Bad!

Unprofessional staff ruin first impressions of practice

Upon arriving to register today, my partner and I were immediately put off by the two desk staff members who were unprofessionally gossiping about a client on the phone, completely ignoring our presence. Things quickly deteriorated when they claimed we had incorrect forms - the very same documents we had meticulously downloaded from their website and previously verified via telephone, with their own staff confirming their accuracy. When I highlighted this discrepancy, I was dismissively told to consult the site manager and was rudely questioned about why we were even registering at this location, despite it being merely a short 3-minute drive away and chosen based on predominantly positive reviews. The reception staff's behavior was shockingly poor, their attitude abysmal, and their professionalism non-existent. I cannot emphasize enough how strongly I would caution anyone against dealing with this establishment. My recommendation is to avoid them completely.

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AP

Anthony P. Google 8 years ago

Rating

Great!

Knowledgeable and caring medical professional

Very competent and reliable medical professional. Impressed with their thorough approach and attentive care. Would definitely recommend this physician to others seeking quality healthcare.

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RB

Ross B. Google 9 years ago

Rating

Excellent!

Efficient healthcare with caring professionals

Welcoming and supportive personnel. The walk-in clinic can become extremely crowded during morning hours, so it's advisable to either come early or secure an appointment in advance.

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About the GP

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

Contact Information

  • 020 83001680
  • Woodlands Surgery 146 Halfway Street Sidcup Kent DA15 8DF

Patient Experience Summary

Patient feedback reflects a mixed experience across appointment access, reception service, and clinical care. Many patients report positive interactions with doctors, describing attentive and thorough medical approaches that have led to accurate diagnoses and effective treatment. Appointment availability through the walk-in clinic is valued, with some patients securing same-day consultations. However, significant challenges emerge around phone accessibility, with repeated complaints about engaged lines, unanswered calls, and difficulty reaching reception to book appointments in advance. Reception experience is inconsistent, ranging from warm and supportive interactions to instances of unprofessional behaviour and dismissive attitudes. Long waiting times at the walk-in clinic during peak hours and extended gaps between available appointment slots are noted concerns.

Communication breakdowns appear in multiple contexts, including poor notification of appointment cancellations and confusion over booking procedures. Some patients report frustration with referral processes and medication renewal procedures, while others praise responsive communication and prompt callback services. The practice's ability to deliver clinical care is generally well-regarded, though reception and administrative processes create barriers to accessing that care.

Overall, the practice demonstrates strong clinical capability but faces operational challenges that impact patient experience, particularly around phone lines, appointment scheduling flexibility, and consistency in reception service delivery.

Appointment

48.67 %
Poor

Reception

54.32 %
Average

Cleanliness

65.00 %
Great

Care

75.28 %
Great

Respect

58.94 %
Average

Seen on time

52.15 %
Average
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