Share review of Ambrose Avenue Group Practice

Ambrose Avenue Group Practice 2016-02-07 Person 5 5 0

My wife & I have been patients at this surgery for over 34 years since we moved to the area. Over the past 5 years or so the service has improved significantly across the board despite the fact that we have both experienced various health problems. We particularly value the fact that there is now a pharmacy in-house, which makes collecting my own regular prescription much easier, & being able to have bookable blood tests is also very reassuring especially now that they are being withdrawn from Essex County Hospital & the drop-in centre, both of which are far less convenient to reach anyway. We are however very concerned that all staff are under relentless pressure, from receptionists onwards, which means that it is difficult to get through on the phone at times. On the odd occasion I have had to see a doctor, whilst waiting I have been struck by just how patient the receptionists are dealing with patients who are often very long-winded, difficult & occasionally downright rude. Theirs' is not a job I would like for all the world! The recent introduction of a single phone number for both surgeries has however helped somewhat as it does mean that it is possible to book an appointment in a single call, which was not possible previously. In addition my wife has occasionally asked that a doctor calls to discuss an issue & this has worked well. All in all, we can find no fault with the surgery on the quality of care, but because they are so good, it is sometimes difficult to get appointments. It is abundantly obvious that the addition of extra receptionists & at least one more doctor would relieve pressure all round, & presumably this is not possible at present due to shortage of funds.