Brentwood Road Medical Centre (Dr Mark's Surgery)
CH
Carla H. 4 years ago • From Google
Bad
Securing an appointment at this medical practice is incredibly challenging, and while they appear overwhelmed, the receptionist's demeanor borders on outright discourteous. Given my intense medical anxiety, I rarely seek healthcare, but I've found the surgery's operational standards to be consistently subpar. Referral processing seems interminably slow, and my medical records have either disappeared or been transferred incompetently. Most problematically, the surgery refuses to handle any gynecological services, including basic contraception, instead directing patients to self-refer elsewhere. Multiple interactions have left me so emotionally overwhelmed that I've been brought to tears simply by conversing with their receptionist. During the few appointments I've managed in approximately four years, the doctors themselves haven't been problematic, but the overall experience has significantly exacerbated my existing medical anxieties. A recent incident particularly highlighted their unprofessionalism. A patient mistakenly called my landline, leaving a voicemail suggesting a serious mental health concern. Attempting to be helpful, I contacted the surgery to relay this message. The receptionist's response was dismissive and impatient, laughing and asking "what do you expect me to do?" before I could fully explain. I acknowledge that working in healthcare under current NHS pressures is undoubtedly stressful. However, such interactions can profoundly impact vulnerable patients like myself who already struggle with medical engagement. I'm now paralyzed by fear, unable to access necessary healthcare and too anxious to seek alternative practices that might present similar challenges. My advice: If you experience anxiety or mental health issues, steer clear of this surgery.
Steviejayne L.