Orchard Surgery
RR
Redrobo R. 4 years ago • From Google
Average
Ok, medical practices are undeniably swamped, which I understand. That's precisely why I proactively obtained my flu and Covid vaccinations elsewhere to minimize their workload. However, their appointment scheduling mechanism feels like a competitive sport where patients must frantically dial at a precise moment to secure a slot. Missing that window means enduring an interminable phone queue, politely informed of your position and perpetually told someone will "be right with you". Eventually, when contact is made, you're curtly informed all appointments are exhausted, necessitating a repeat performance the following day! I propose a straightforward improvement benefiting everyone: when appointments are depleted, update the message to transparently state "despite your prolonged wait, all available slots have been claimed" - eliminating needless conversation and preventing futile call attempts that waste both patient and staff time. Effective process management could generate efficiency and potentially create resources for expanded services. I genuinely sympathize with the call handlers, who undoubtedly absorb significant frustration from disappointed callers - a situation entirely resolvable through thoughtful system redesign. Full disclosure: I've never actually consulted a physician at this practice, so cannot comment on clinical quality. My three-star rating reflects a balanced perspective acknowledging the inherent challenges of managing a medical practice while acknowledging the booking system's significant limitations. If this phone-based allocation method doesn't suit you, I recommend exploring alternative providers.
Keith A.