Mill Road Surgery
JY
Jonathan Y. 5 years ago • From Google
Great
I've been registered with this GP practice since 2013, attending various examinations, blood tests, and receiving prescriptions. The staff are exceptionally welcoming and courteous, and the surgery maintains a spotless and organized environment. The reception team is genuinely doing their best. Similar to other critical reviews, the appointment booking system is undoubtedly the most significant drawback (deducting one star). However, this issue is common across many medical practices, not just Mill Road. -- Appointments / Front Office: (on a Wednesday morning during Covid) I called precisely at 8:00, found the line closed, redialed, and entered a queue of 29 people at 08:01. By 08:14, I was first in line, and by 08:21, I secured a GP appointment/consultation. A 20-minute wait during Covid is still impressively efficient. You absolutely must call exactly on time, as they consistently emphasize! I've previously called at 08:20, waited 45 minutes, only to find all slots filled. Calling after 08:15 is essentially futile; better to try again tomorrow. For urgent situations, a walk-in service near Colchester General hospital remains an option. Pre-covid, an 8am call would typically place you around 15-20 in the queue. I'd always celebrate landing in the top 10. --- General Practitioners: Gone are the days of guaranteed specific GP assignments. Requesting a particular doctor significantly reduces your chances of being seen. Consultations are strictly limited to 10-minute slots. I've encountered numerous GPs over the years and cannot recall any notably negative experiences. Regarding specific doctors: > Dr. De Silva is direct and might seem brusque, but is genuinely skilled and efficient, providing precise test recommendations and specialist referrals. > Dr. Senthil offers an incredibly compassionate telephone manner, resembling a kind, understanding aunt who comprehensively addresses questions, explains results, and communicates effectively with specialists. Avoid being an overly anxious patient who tries to dictate medical procedures. Allow professionals to conduct necessary tests to eliminate potential diagnoses. Seeking multiple opinions is always acceptable. -- For prescription needs, paramedics and certain nurses can prescribe medications, often via telephone, with collection possible at local pharmacies within 1-2 days. I personally had mine processed through Asda Pharmacy.
Ann R.