Victoria and Five Elms Medical Centre
SS
Shajal S. 10 months ago • From Google
Bad
To whom it may concern, I am thoroughly frustrated with the substandard care and service at Victoria and Five Elms Medical Centre on Queen's Road Barking. As a diabetes patient seeking medical assistance, I attempted to schedule an appointment with a doctor regarding my condition and medication. Instead, the receptionist booked me for a routine diabetes review. Upon arriving early for my 4pm appointment, I was left waiting while hearing idle conversation from the consultation room. By 4:30, I was compelled to knock on the door - something I've never had to do at any previous medical practice. The nurse emerged, explaining he couldn't see me because another patient couldn't climb the stairs. However, he had been engaged in lengthy conversation while two patients waited. I was finally seen at 5pm, a full hour after my scheduled time. During the review, the nurse declared he couldn't prescribe medication and suggested I book an appointment with the practice's diabetes specialist. At reception, I repeatedly emphasized my need for a diabetes specialist medication consultation. The receptionist scheduled another appointment for 12:20. Upon returning, I was shuttled back and forth between the nurse and reception. Shockingly, a different receptionist now claimed no diabetes specialist existed, only a remote nurse who could potentially adjust medications. The inconsistent information and lack of clear communication is unacceptable. It appears the staff urgently needs comprehensive training in patient communication and active listening. If I, as a confident English speaker, struggle to navigate their system, I can only imagine the challenges faced by patients with limited language skills or those unfamiliar with complaint procedures.
Asher J.