"Non existent care"

I phoned at about 8.30 this morning. The initial message says that the surgery had "reached capacity". I continued to hold and eventually spoke to a receptionist. She asked my symptoms which basically was persistent back pain. She explained that due to a combination of sickness and holiday they have no medical staff available., and I should go to a treatment centre or contact 111.

I was shocked by such a pathetic response. I was concerned that the back pain could be something more serious such as a heart issue but still nothing could be done. The receptionist was clearly embarrassed by the situation .

Obviously sickness is an issue in any organisation but holidays should be planned for.

I have been with this surgery for 35 years and I am appalled by the deterioration in the service over the past few years. If this was an isolated incident it could be excused but it now seems every contact with Oaks Surgery results in nothing being available.

It's bad enough having to make do with telephone appointments instead of face to face. It now seems even telephone appointments are unavailable.