Appointments

 We have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about our appointment system. Hopefully this will answer your questions!

To book an appointment, please ring reception on 01803 557033. We are not able to offer online appointments at this moment in time.

How do I book an appointment?
You can pre-book routine appointments up to 6 weeks in advance (many other surgeries only offer up to 2 weeks in advance) or you can request a 'same day' appointment. We operate a daily triage system to ensure that anyone who needs to be seen that day will be and if you wish to speak to a doctor, we offer telephone consultations (saves you travel and time).

At what time of the day can I phone for an appointment?
Any time from 8am onwards but the later the call, the less choice there will be for that day.

What if I cannot see the doctor of my choice?
We try to offer you an appointment with the doctor of your choice but if all the free appointments are taken you may have to see someone else. Please remember doctors do have to go away on courses and holidays and even doctors get ill sometimes!...so sometimes your doctor will not be available.

What happens if I need a same day appointment but the surgery is fully booked?
We will arrange for a doctor to phone you back at the earliest opportunity to assess your problem and you will be seen on the same day if the doctor decides it is necessary.

If I can't see a doctor, can I see a nurse?
We have two full time nurses who will provide much needed extra nurse appointments, but please remember that nurses are not substitutes to doctors.

It will help us find you an appointment if you can give us some idea of the problem.

What if I am at work and can only make certain times of the day?
We try to keep some later appointments free but remember your employers should allow you time off.

What if I want/need to see a female doctor?
We will do our best but our female doctors are a scarce resource and there is a limit to the number of patients they can see in a day. If an appointment is available then you will be offered one.

Often our GP Registrar is female which is a big help and she may well be able to address your concerns

Please remember the more restrictive your request for an appointment the less likely it is that your request can be met.

How can I help?
When booking a nurse appointment you will be asked which type of procedure your require (eg: a dressing, ear syringe, travel advice etc) as different procedures need different amounts of time. Please remember that receptionists need this information in order to allow you sufficient time, you wont be asked for details of your medical condition!

If you are unable to attend your appointment, please try to give us plenty of notice so that we are able to offer it to someone else.

Please be patient if surgeries over-run, next time it may be you who needs the extra consultation time.

If you need to see a doctor downstairs please tell reception when you book in, but to avoid this we have installed a stair-lift to give easy access to the first floor.

What if I am at work?
We also hold a working persons surgery Saturday mornings from 09.00 to 12.00 but it is for pre-booked appointments only.