Sydenham House Group Practice
JJ
J20ruf J. 3 years ago • From Google
Bad
When you do manage to see a clinician, they can be excellent, but the reception team's approach to patients has been disappointing. I attended with my very young infant a couple of years ago following a routine appointment elsewhere, as treatment was needed. At reception, we were turned away because registration had not been completed. Despite my recent major surgery and recovery needs, I was directed to seek care at an alternative walk-in facility across town. I also discovered a concerning health issue that required assessment. As I work during standard business hours and cannot remain on hold in the mornings, I called in the evening to request an appointment, explaining the urgency of my concern. I was met with an unhelpful response and told that appointments were unavailable, with the suggestion that I must call during morning hours. When I reiterated my work constraints, I was informed that this was simply how the system operates. I expressed serious concern that any delay in addressing this matter due to the practice's approach could have significant consequences. Overall, the clinicians I have seen have been thorough and supportive, but the reception team's conduct and the practice's procedures require urgent review and improvement. Update November 2022 There appears to have been changes to the reception team, and some staff members are now notably more pleasant and helpful. However, I maintain my previous concerns, as experiences can still be inconsistent depending on who you interact with. The practice continues to have limitations, particularly regarding mental health support. The approach often seems to be offering medication and signposting to external services before moving on. This is concerning given the broader mental health crisis, as patients report feeling unsupported and isolated despite being encouraged to seek help. The time taken to access meaningful support remains problematic.
Michelle F.