"CQC Outstanding and very much deserved"

After recently moving back to the area and having to register at a doctors I chose Sett Valley Practice and so glad I did.

I've unfortunately had to seek medical advice and have tests far more than I would normally. I did wonder that they may think they'd taken on a hypochondriac!

Far from it. Their responsiveness in terms of being able to get appointments, the courteousness and helpfulness of the Reception staff and the mannerism of the doctors I have seen (and there have been 3 so far) has been exemplary. I have not felt rushed as I have in previous practices. My consultations have taken as long as has been required unlike previous experiences with other doctors in other practices.

My latest visit was for routine blood tests. However, we were in the grip of the Covid 19 lockdown and given my OCD issues around cleanliness and germs the thought of this sent me into overdrive. However, when I called Reception to book the appointment and explained my situation and asked about protocol, everything was explained to me in detail and I was given a selection of appointments to minimise my anxiety and my questions were fully answered. I was not made to feel "stupid" or to be "overreacting". Totally the opposite.

On attendance I could not have been better looked after. Everything was as explained. The staff were welcoming, understanding and compassionate. I, after a few deep breaths, was fine. Everything was very clean - the chair I was to sit in was wiped down from the previous patient and I was offered sanitising gel on both entry and exit. Everything which could have been done to keep us all (patients and staff) safe, was visibly being done.

I cannot fault this surgery in any way from the moment of first registering (which was dealt with at lightening speed).

I have previously sat in the waiting room and watched the comings and goings of patients and the various interactions of Reception staff and other staff. I can honestly say that my own experiences appear to be emulated across their entire patients.

This is a great surgery and we are lucky to have our own little bit of local NHS in what is Sett Valley Medical Centre.