St James's Surgery (Heart of Bath)

I used the on line method of booking an appointment yesterday and it was 100 times better than being told I am 29th in the queue when trying to call the surgery and I was given an appointment the same day, really easy to use

One of the most appalling examples of NHS GP service ever encountered. Booking a double-appointment to deal with multiple long-standing disabilities was impossible due to the practise policy of ‘one very rapid appointment for one very specific complaint’. I have recently transferred to the surgery with several established conditions pre-diagnosed several years ago; practice associate clinician was immediately eager to ‘revoke’ and investigate an established diagnosis of a longstanding severe disability to be ‘reassessed from scratch’ on the grounds he had not seen a case of this diagnosed musculoskeletal condition in over 25 years, to the point where he was required to attempt to rediagnose me via Google as to the symptoms of Suprascapular Nerve Palsy (already established elsewhere by NMSK Specialists in Cardiff over two years ago). This Associate Practitioner - who refused to clarify his status as a qualified MD - made it clear he had not encountered such a condition and therefore would refute any diagnosis by a more experienced or more senior professional. He was made aware of the fact that the condition causes total paralysis of the associated limb alongside severe (level 10+) pain alongside total parasthesia of the associated radial/ulnar nerves and loss of function of the right hand: his attitude toward all of this is that this very longstanding condition is best treated very conservatively with mild exercise via gentle physiotherapy: it is very apparent that, with the exception of this afflicted shoulder, I am of more than average physical strength, with decades of experience of rowing at Oxford, associated physical training, and a general predilection to attend the gym for intensive resistance training (now inhibited by this condition.) I find the service grotesquely negligent and as if I have reverted over two years in my medical care by having faith in entrusting my healthcare to HeartOfBath; while I considered NHS Wales to be clinically and educationally substandard, I am inconceivably disappointed to now discover that the NHS in England vis a vis a low-traffic surgery in an affluent area of Bath seems incapable of meeting even the lowest conceivable standards of healthcare. Clearly, the standard of medical training in England is of even lower quality. I have further appointments for longstanding and excruciating musculoskeletal issues, mental health issues relating to domestic abuse, and other poorly-addressed issues; the St James’s Surgery/Heart of Bath policies are clear that no clinical interest exists in quality patient care or in booking appropriate appointments with any degree of urgency. Overall, my initial impression of Heart of Bath/St James’ Surgery is that it exists as a paradigm of the concept of ‘unfit for purpose’ - the premises, and its practitioners, would serve the community far better as a convenience store than a medical practice, and I greatly expect to see the premises functioning better as a late-night Co-Op within the next three years.

The doctors at this surgery are commendable for their professionalism and care. However, I've given 2 stars as I've had multiple challenging interactions with the reception staff. They often come across as rude and dismissive. Given that this is a medical facility where many might be dealing with mental health concerns, I believe it's essential for the staff to display empathy and understanding. I'd recommend using the online check-in next to the reception desk to avoid any unnecessary interactions. I hope the management addresses this issue soon as I can see many other reviews state the same.

Brilliant efficient and professional appointment with GP within 4hours also receptionist very pleasant and helpful.

RUDE ARROGANT RECEPTION STAFF!! A longstanding problem with ST James Surgery. People who simply Couldn't care less!! RUDE spoilt little brats generally. No manners whatsoever!! Refused access to a doctor in spite of Doctor sending text message to contact? Left hanging as to whether or not I have/had a serious kidney problem? RECEPTION STAFF need to learn some basic MANNERS !!!!

Doctor was very good and helpful but other was little bit slow

As a University Student, it was my first time going here and the receptionist was very helpful. He showed me where the downstairs waiting room was because it seemed like a maze at first. I was seen to earlier than my appointment time which was nice. The surgery seemed calm and welcoming. :)

Almost impossible to see a doctor or get a call back. When I did get a call back,guess what?...Yes, the Dr didn't call back! Of course,you get told to phone @ 8am or 2pm if you want any kind of appointment. Last time I waited 67 minutes as there were 29 people in front of me.Of course, when I did get through,all appointments were taken. Receptionists are hit & miss;you may speak to one that actually seems to have a bit of empathy,or you might get one that maybe should not be dealing with the public if they are that miserable? Since COVID lockdown it's even worse. Very depressing, especially if, like my partner you've been born with long term chronic conditions that often need attention. Wait until the Tory Cabal Of Lies and Corruption find yet another way to enrich themselves and their mates by flogging off more NHS services. Sorry state of affairs.