Our Appointment System

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I still need to see or talk to someone at the surgery

Feedback to the practice suggests that at times our appointment system can feel complicated.  We hope that if we outline how the system works it will make using it feel easier.

The tension that exists for us is making sure that every day we have enough spaces to see people that need to be seen on that day. We also need to be able to offer follow up appointments for people whose problems need ongoing review, at the same time ensuring continuity with the clinicians who are looking after them. We also wish to provide the opportunity to book ahead for people to make it easier for those working or with difficulties with transport to the surgery.

The first hour of surgery each morning is reserved for appointments booked in advance. A few other appointments through the day may be booked as well, for the reasons explained above.

As a practice we try to see everyone  as promptly as possible. We are not able to to guarantee that you will get to see the doctor that you would prefer to see, as demand varies so much day to day.

We work as a team and try to manage a system that allows continuity of care but flexibility in recognising that all the clinicians develop areas of increased expertise.  

When you contact us you will try to see you as promptly as possible. If you wish to see a particular doctor you can book in advance but it may be at times there are no appointments for several weeks.  We hope if the problem is straightforward you will consider seeing another doctor.  However, if it is with regard to something that needs the continuity/skill of a particular doctor, then the receptionist can take a message for that doctor to contact you to ensure the appropriate follow up is arranged.

For people working away and for those who find it difficult to get in within normal surgery opening hours we run extended surgeries that can be booked in advance:

Our phones are very busy when the surgery opens at 8-00 am.  It is much quieter and easier to get through after 9-00 am.  

Obtain Telephone Advice

The telephone lines are busy during morning surgery, so telephone enquiries other than requests for appointments or visits are better made as follows:

• General Enquiries: After 11.00am
• Test Results:  After 2.00pm

Alternatively, use our online contact form

The practice has a system for receiving and returning telephone calls from patients. At least one clinician in the practice is available during some part of the working day to respond to requests from patients.

If you ring the surgery and wish to speak to a GP or the practice nurse, the receptionist will take a message and pass this on. They will call you back when they are free.

In some instances, the clinician may ask you to make an appointment to come into surgery, because in their opinion a telephone consultation is inappropriate to deal with your problem.

All of our doctors do not work every day, so your message will usually be passed to the duty doctor.