As a general review of this practice I have to say that I would be frightened to call them in a genuine emergency. Unless you can get through to them on the telephone at 8a.m. you have no chance of being seen on the same day and very rarely would be able to book a telephone conversation with a doctor for that day. If you request certain drugs and they are not included on their very tightly controlled practice drugs list, then you will be refused, even when the hospital makes the recommendation (unless the consultant specifically says that the drug must be prescribed!) Certain doctors within the practice are very good and thorough and will listen, however, there are more who are simply 'too busy' to give patients time to express their concerns and to be properly diagnosed. If you are insured, and would like a private referral then be prepared to be made to feel very uncomfortable when asking for the referral. In addition, should you need an urgent private referral, be aware that they are not generally ready within 24 hours!! Before finishing, I would like to add that the receptionists are, on the whole, very polite and as helpful as they can be under the restraints placed on them by the management.
Original Comment Report...