Ardblair Medical Practice

Written by a patient

This has been my medical practice all my life. I am fortunate that I am seldom ill. It is almost impossible to see a GP. If you do, it is unlikely you will get the same doctor for follow up treatment ( or indeed see ANY doctor for follow up treatment ) as it appears to be done mainly by telephone. I had an experience where I was prescribed very strong anti biotics by a clinician 'just in case ' ---because it's Friday! I did NOT have an infection of any sort. My recent visit was 'fitted in' with a doctor who could not even be bothered to read the information the clinician had put down after deciding that I should see a GP. I felt that I was imposing on the doctor's time, and he couldn't wait to get rid of me. After having to go to hospital for tests, I tried to have an appointment with the same doctor. I was told it would be more that THREE weeks, but I could see a different doctor in 18 days time! The receptionist said that the original doctor could do a 10 minute 'phone call in 5days time. I know that there are changes happening all through the NHS and doctors work hard, but they must take on board that if someones is ill, they are also a wee bit scared and unsure what is wrong. Surely a little bit more attention and caring would not go amiss. To finalise, I wish to comment on the general atmosphere in this practice. There are no pleasantries now, no 'good morning', just receptionists with solemn faces. And as for the voice on the answer 'phone..... well that would make anyone think twice about making an appointment.

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Written by a patient

I came from another Practice outwith this area within the last couple of years and the difference is immeasurable. Recently the triage system was introduced for appointments. In principle I think this is a very good idea, but the main Clinician making the decisions, can be off hand and rude and I have been in the receiving end of her getting it completely wrong and not making the right decision. Her manner and attitude leave you feeling rotten about trying to get an appointment, so much so that I am currently considering moving practice. Trying to book a routine appointment is a 3 or 4 week wait, so if you want to be seen within this time, you have no option other than to phone at 8am for an emergency appointment and be triaged by this Clinician. There are a couple of good Doctors who seem genuinely interested, but the rest present as being tired/jaded and just going through the motions. I've had instance on a couple of occassions this year of the Dr putting a note on my files to say my medications needed further discussion and I did not receive any communication from the Practice to advise me off this whatsoever. I have only discovered this weeks later. I don't feel confident about my care being with this Practice and I think without a doubt, changes need to be made.

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Written by a patient

I have been a patient of this practice since I came to the town 30 years ago and I can honestly say that in the main I cannot complain about any aspect of the services they provide. Yes I know that getting an appointment can be difficult just when you want one but given the fact that there are nearly 10,000 people in the town alone, not including the surrounding district, and only two surgeries available, is it any wonder that suitable appointments are difficult to get? And with the proposal to build even more housing it's not going to improve in the short term. On a personal level I am thankful to the practice for an early diagnosis of prostate cancer and also for the quick action of a GP who suspected I had had a heart attack both of which were treated promptly by the NHS. The influx of younger GPs is making a difference too with slightly differing attitudes and the advent of online appointment booking also improving the service. My thanks to the doctor who has taken it upon himself to set up the fish tank again and maintain it, it brightens up the waiting area and can be quite soothing to watch.

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Written by a patient

Have been with this doctors over 30 year and totally gutted by how much it has went down hill. Over 3 weeks for an appointment and then you get a random doctor who your not booked with. Have seen 2 different doctors with my kids and self. They are totally not interested in their patients and no explanations on illness. Also 2 members of family meant to be referred for immediate hospital referral. Referrals never put in.,Didn't happen. Doctors don't even take the time to check medical history. Its like they can't be bothered speaking to their patients. So sad to see this surgery go to the dogs.

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Written by a patient

I am now a former patient having joined the other practice in Blairgowrie. trying to get and appointment at this practice is a disgrace. You are interrogated on the phone by the receptionist ( not their fault as I imagine that they have been instructed to do so ) for them to try and make a decision as to whether you should see a doctor or the nurse ( I did not realise that receptionists were medically qualified to make such an assessment ). In my last dealings with the practice I had to deal with the nurse practitioner on the phone. I had a small operation on my finger and wanted a doctor to assess how it was progressing and whether it was advisable to go back to work as I do manual labour. She wanted me to self assess myself and I had to argue with her to get an appointment. I complained to the practice manager who stated that what they were offering was the "gold" standard of service to patients!!! When I stated that other people I spoke to were also complaining about the service ( as can be borne out by other comments posted here ) he stated that he did not care what the people of Blairgowrie thought!! This is obviously a very caring practice.

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