Changes to Same-Day Appointment Booking from Monday 1 April 2024
As a practice we are constantly reviewing our appointment system to adapt to feedback from patients and keep in line the NHS increasing focus on utilising technology.
Over recent months we have received a number of complaints and comments from patients who have felt the need to queue outside the surgery before 8am in order to gain an appointment. We have also received comments and complaints from those patients who are unable to queue outside the surgery at 8am and feel that they are being put at a disadvantage.
Therefore, when the Practice reopens after the Easter Bank Holiday, i.e Tuesday 2 April 2024, the Practice will be changing how patients book same-day appointments. You will no longer be able to book a same-day appointment at either Melbourne or Chellaston surgery front desk between 8:00am – 8:30am.
Between 8:00am – 8:30am all same-day appointments will now be available by:
Telephone – Calling the Practice on 01332 720077 or 01332 862124
Please don’t be offended when our receptionists ask for information from you – they are using it to direct you to the most appropriate clinician.
This is to ensure that the booking system is fair to all. Our telephone system allows for you to select a call back function which will hold your place in the queue. However, please note that you must keep your phone with you at all times, so that you don’t miss the call back.
We only have limited appointments available this may mean that sometimes when you get to position number 1, the appointments may have all gone for the day and receiving treatment elsewhere may be advised.
Please note: Booking same-day appointments in person will no longer be possible between 8:00am – 8:30am.
In order to address patient comments regarding telephone waiting times, receptionist time will be directed towards answering patient calls instead.
Advanced, Nurse, Health Care Assistants and other services appointments will continue to be offered at various times.
The Practice will continue to monitor the appointment booking systems and review as necessary.
Thank you in advance for your co-operation.
GP Partners
Melbourne & Chellaston Medical Practice
