"One of the better surgeries"

I hear horror stories of some surgeries and consider myself lucky to belong to Herschel Medical Centre.

My last appointment was not the best as I had a longer wait than normal, but generally speaking I have been satisfied with the service received.

I've always found the reception staff friendly, helpful and, usually, very efficient.

I am in my late eighties and have nearly always managed to get an appointment with my allocated doctor, although it has sometimes meant ringing back as no immediate appointment available. I have had mixed results when seeing another doctor- if my own doctor is away or otherwise unavailable - and, in the past, have been misdiagnosed on two occasions, but have more often been satisfied and have had several helpful home visits from other doctors.

I would recommend Herschel Medical Centre to anyone, but am surprised that it is still able to take new patients with the high number already attending.

I have been told that a problem is the number of people who do not turn up for appointments without giving prior (or any) notice.

I imagine that this is not a problem particular to Herschel and wonder if a fine could be a solution.

However, I do realise that the admin work and cost of this could make it prohibitive!