HOW DO I...
TELEPHONE MY DOCTOR FOR ROUTINE OR PREVENTATIVE ADVICE?

All our doctors are happy to give telephone advice. If you need to speak to a doctor over the telephone, please try to ring reception on 0118 969 0160 between 8.30 and 10.30am, ask for 'Messages' and leave a contact number. A doctor will ring back.

HOW DO I...
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?

The Practice is open between 8.00am and 6.30pm Monday – Friday.
Telephone: 0118 969 0160

OUR APPOINTMENT SYSTEM

It is very fustrating for you to see a different doctor every few weeks for the same problem. We, as doctors, also realise how annoying this is, also not good for your medical care. We have introduced more appointments. What is important is that yours and the doctors' time is used properly, to benefit you the most. Mainly this means making sure you get to see the right doctor, which is the one who is most familiar with the problems you are seeking help with. Many people value seeing their own doctor for all of their problems, we will try and meet this need as well. You will never be asked if your problem is an emergency. If you feel you need seeing promptly, that's good enough for us. We will always offer you an alternative if we cannot meet your request.
The receptionists will need to get a good idea with whom to make your appointment if you need one. We have asked them to ask you more closely about your needs. Detail is not needed, what they will ask is what sort of problem you need help with, and if you need to see a doctor, which doctor was dealing with that problem.Please be asured all staff fully understand about confidentiality, you should have no concerns about helping them with their enquiries.

HOW DO I...
OBTAIN HOME VISITS?

Experience has taught us that home visits are very time-consuming and we ask that, if at all possible, you try to come to the surgery where facilities for investigation and treatment are far better. The surgery is central to the practice area and, as a general rule, you will be seen more quickly by coming to the surgery than waiting for a home visit. Also, do remember that feverish children can be brought to the surgery. Please help your doctor plan their list of home visits efficiently by making your requests (telephone 0118 969 0160) before 10.30am and we will endeavour to see the patient as soon as possible.

HOW DO I...
OBTAIN RESULTS OF INVESTIGATIONS?

The results of investigations (blood tests etc) take several days to be returned to the practice. When they arrive back in the practice, the doctor has to see and action them before they are made available to reception for giving out to patients.

If your doctor tells you to telephone the surgery for the results of certain tests, please allow five working days from the date of the test. The results service is available between 11.00am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday on 0118 969 0160. In order to maintain confidentiality, results will only be given to patients themselves or to the parents/legal guardians of minors.