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Beversbrook Medical Centre 2022-03-12 Person 0 5 0

Beversbrook Medical Centre used to be excellent in every way, until it merged with Patford House and Sutton Benger. Before the merger, booking an appointment was easy. We would either ring through to reception at Beversbrook, where the telephone was almost always answered promptly, or we would use the SystmOnline service, where we could view all available appointments and book with ease and convenience. Since the merger, booking an appointment feels impossible. Last time I needed an appointment, I called in at Beversbrook Reception only to be told to book via Doctorlink; when I then accessed Doctorlink, it instructed me to contact my GP directly for a routine appointment. I was pushed from pillar to post. At the time, I was experiencing a very painful shoulder which was disrupting my sleep, but after answering many questions on Doctorlink, the advice from that 'service' was to take painkillers and rest at home. I just needed to see a doctor! My wife and I have found that when we telephone through to Patford House, our call does not get answered. On several occasions, we have been on hold for up to 20 minutes before giving up. All the time, a pre-recorded voice repeatedly reminds us that, "Your call is important to us." It feels ridiculous and frustrating to be unable to do a simple thing like book an appointment. People with medical issues are often anxious and/or in pain; the last thing they need is to be put through such a confusing and stressful experience when trying to access a doctor.

Please, please bring back the option of booking appointments through SystmOnline. Please make it possible to book appointments over the telephone.