Appointment Guidance
Cancelling your appointment
If you are unable to attend an appointment or do not need it anymore, please cancel it at least an hour before so that we can offer it to another patient. This is extremely important as appointments are in great demand.
Appointments can be cancelled by phoning the surgery on 0114 2619778. You can also cancel your appointment using Patient Online Services.
Your Usual GP
People with complex needs will be assigned a Usual GP (or other clinician) who will offer continuity and coordinate your care.
This includes people with learning difficulties, with severe mental health problems, who are housebound or who have complex health needs.
Appointment times
Some of our appointments are now by telephone, but you will be offered a face-to-face appointment if you need specific tests or examinations.
We now also have a call back service in operation if you don't wish to wait in the queue. This will be initiated after 5 minutes.
It is also more important than ever that we use interpreters when required for telephone calls, and their availability can cause delays.
SMS Text Reminder
We are able to send you a free SMS text appointment reminder to a mobile phone. Please make sure we have the correct and up to date mobile number for you. If your number has changed please inform our reception staff who can then update your records.
Late appointments
Please make sure you arrive on time for your appointment. Late arrivals cause delays for clinicians and other patients. If you come later than 15 minutes your appointment will be rescheduled for another day.
Chaperones for intimate examinations
We understand that it can be embarrassing or difficult to see the doctor or nurse alone for many problems. A chaperone can be provided by the practice to:
- Provide support, comfort and reassurance to patients
- Assist in the examination of patients
- Act as an interpreter
- Provide protection to healthcare professionals
If you feel you would like a chaperone present at your consultation with a Doctor or Nurse, please inform Reception who will be more than happy to organise one of our specially trained members of staff to support you.
Interpreters
We understand the importance of interpreters but due to the very high demand, we cannot guarantee that they will be available for every contact.
We aim to have interpreters in the building from 9 am but we cannot always ensure their availability.
The Staff and Clinicians also have the use of DA Languages telephone translation service when a face to face interpreter is unavailable.
