I would like to thank Mr. Lucas, Practice Manager for his response.
Prescription line.
Online ordering is of NO USE to those of us who do not use a computer or similar at home. To say that the repeat medication post box is available 24 hours is ridiculous. Yes, the post box is there for 24 hours but what lone woman in her right mind would walk through Newton Aycliffe late at night and then enter a narrow, dark corner to use it. Also, I imagine a lot of elderly people who are not housebound, nevertheless, find it a hardship to make a detour to the post box.
Calling the surgery.
What is needed, is that telephone calls are answered promptly. I cannot see the benefit of the new system. Surely, if the queue is lengthened the call back time will be longer. One will still be tied to the phone waiting for a call back or, if using a mobile, risk entertaining those nearby with a description of one’s symptoms.
Appointment model.
I accept there could be some benefits to this. I don’t make enough appointments to have really tried it.
How very sad that the Practice Manager seems to think that my comment about my cat’s treatment was solely dependant on money. It is the friendliness of the receptionists, the kindness and compassion of the vets and the veterinary nurses which I remember with gratitude. To give these things does not cost money. Perhaps, it is more that veterinary staff seem to like their patients.
Does Mr. Lucas regard the NHS as a charity and the patients as beneficiaries who should shut up a be duly grateful for what they are given or pay for private medical care? His response reminds me of the workhouse beadle, Mr. Bumble’s horror at the temerity of Oliver Twist in daring to ask for a little more gruel. I would remind him that we all pay for the NHS through our hefty taxes and NI contributions.
Name and address supplied.