"NHS access at its worst"

I was interested to read the previous review. I too rang on the dot of 8 to make an urgent appointment but was number 4 in the queue. With assistance, two mobile phones and one landline were being used to make this appointment. All 3 phones said you are number 4 in the queue. After approximately 40 seconds of waiting the call disconnected. This happened every time after 40 seconds. This is clearly not a proper queue as after each disconnect you have to redial when presumably you are then at the end of the queue (although number 4 seemed to be number of the day).

Having repeatedly redialed for over 20 minutes I gave up and drove to one of the branch surgeries. I explained the problem with being cut off and was told that is what happens!I was also told that all the appointments had gone. As I was definitely going to need to see a doctor (yes I do know about using pharmacies, self help, Nurse practitioners etc) I was told I could not use the On The Day service as they are not able to refer people for investigations.I was told to try next week.

The online booking system was no use either as there were absolutely no appointments available!

As it is many years since I last attended the doctors the last time involved an early start to queue outside in the elements. The receptionist told me this system was stopped, with the inference being that this new telephone call system was an improvement. I was always able to get an appointment after queuing outside. It now seems impossible. Some improvement!

I now face trying again next week. This is the first time that I have actually felt frightened about how this surgery functions. My need for an appointment is real and I am seriously worried.