Beech Tree Surgery
KK
Kate K. one year ago • From Google
Bad
I found this practice to be disappointing and fell short of what I would expect from a healthcare provider. Rather than offering telephone appointments, they require patients to complete an online form for consideration, with the option of online diagnosis based on described symptoms alone. My husband needed to see someone regarding significant digestive problems. Following the practice's guidance, he submitted an online form. A clinician provided a diagnosis within minutes based on his symptom description and offered online advice. However, it later became clear that the initial assessment was incorrect, and he was subsequently found to have a more serious bowel condition that requires proper medical attention. He required hospital admission for over 24 hours. I believe this situation could have been avoided had he been given an in-person appointment for a proper examination from the outset. I question how any medical professional can confidently diagnose a patient based solely on a written description of symptoms without conducting a face-to-face consultation, proper assessment, or direct conversation. In my view, the appointment system this practice operates is ineffective and does not serve patients well. It appears to prioritise efficiency over genuine care provision. In-person consultations are essential when someone requires medical attention, yet obtaining an appointment here is difficult. Even when one is eventually arranged, patients are still directed back to the online form process. I feel this practice does not meet the standards I would expect from a competent medical service.
Shirley F.