Barclay Medical Practice Livingston: Accessibility and Patient Experience
The Barclay Medical Practice located in Livingston, Scotland, aims to provide a range of healthcare services with a focus on accessibility. As an important healthcare facility, it features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a dedicated wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring that all patients, regardless of mobility challenges, can access essential medical care.
Understanding Accessibility Features
Accessibility is a key consideration for healthcare providers, especially for the elderly and those with disabilities. The Barclay Medical Practice has made strides in this area:
Wheelchair-Accessible Entrance: With a door designed for easy entry, individuals using wheelchairs or mobility aids can navigate without hassle.
Dedicated Wheelchair-Accessible Car Park: Patients can find designated parking spots close to the entrance, reducing distance and exertion when visiting the practice.
Patient Feedback and Experiences
Feedback from patients reveals a mixed experience regarding overall satisfaction at the Barclay Medical Practice. Many appreciate the staff's friendliness, noting particular praise for receptionists and nurse practitioners who have shown empathy and attentiveness.
While some patients have expressed concerns about the appointment system, stating that it can be challenging to secure a timely visit, others commend the cleanliness and organization of the facility. For instance, one patient remarked on the reception staff's helpfulness, suggesting improvements could be made to streamline the phone appointment system and enhance communication during peak times. The struggle to get through to the office has been a common theme, with many describing the process as frustrating.
The Importance of Continuity of Care
Continuity of care remains a significant factor in patient satisfaction. Several reviews highlighted the difficulty in building a rapport with clinicians due to frequent changes in appointments and staffing. Patients have noted the importance of seeing the same healthcare professional consistently, which allows for better understanding and personalized treatment plans.
Despite these challenges, there are positive notes regarding specific staff members who have provided exceptional service, fostering a sense of trust and care among their patients. Mentioned specifically were the efforts of certain nurses and admin staff in making patients feel welcomed and supported during their visits.
Conclusion
Overall, the Barclay Medical Practice demonstrates a commitment to accessibility while navigating challenges related to appointment availability and staff continuity. While many patients express a desire for improved appointment systems, the feedback emphasizes the importance of approachable staff and an accommodating environment. As healthcare needs continue to evolve, so must practices like Barclay adapt to maintain a high standard of care for all, ensuring that accessibility features contribute positively to the patient experience.
If you need to modify any information that you believe is not correct about this page, please forward a message and we will correct it as soon as possible. With anticipation thanks for your cooperation.
Lisa was absolutely fantastic in helping me schedule my appointment, and when I arrived, I was greeted by the lovely team of Lisa, Michaela, and Viv at the reception who were incredibly welcoming and helpful. It was truly a refreshing experience compared to other medical facilities I have visited. Each of them truly embodies the professionalism and warmth of the practice. During my appointment, I was seen by Rosemary, who was equally as wonderful and made me feel comfortable right away.
Elizabeth Martin (26/07/2025, 20:24):
It's just the way things are these days, you might not be able to get a same-day appointment. But that's not their fault.
I must say, the reception staff are really top-notch and friendly, and my physio appointment was absolutely fantastic.
Kathryn Barnes (26/07/2025, 09:53):
I reckon this hospital has gone downhill ever since the new management took over. The receptionists have faces like they've misplaced a twenty-pound note - they seem miserable and just thankful to have a job.
Ronald Cruz (25/07/2025, 02:28):
***Absolutely atrocious GP practice***
I requested an extension for my sick leave and was informed that it could be done online. After filling out their online form, I received a text the following day instructing me to book an appointment. Standing in line outside the surgery on 25/07/2022 at 8:00 am in the pouring rain to secure an appointment became necessary as their phone line is perpetually busy and even when connected, no appointments are available.
Despite requesting a face-to-face appointment due to my limited spoken English, I was denied. Receiving a missed call at 10:30 am and continuously trying to reach the surgery until 2:30 pm on 25/07/2022, I was informed that I was still queued. Contacting them again at 5:45 pm that same day, I was told that the doctor had attempted to call at 5:00 pm, but it went straight to voicemail, which did not have any messages. They advised me to call back the next day. What a nightmare.
A similar scenario unfolded: calling the surgery 50 times, I finally spoke with a doctor who requested blood tests and extended my sick leave from 20th July to 31st July, promising a follow-up call on 01 August to discuss the results. When asked if I needed to schedule an appointment for this discussion, the answer was a clear "No"------we shall see if a call or text is received for booking an appointment. I was instructed to collect the sick note from reception at 9:15 am on 27/07/2022 when going in for blood tests. However, the sick note was not ready by then and would only be available after 2 pm.
Receiving the sick note later that day after 2:00 pm without any dates specified made matters more complicated. Upon contacting the reception, I was informed that no one was available to assist except for emergency appointments. Pressing for a solution, I managed to speak to someone to rectify the sick note. After providing my number, the doctor called and assured that the issue would be resolved promptly.
While acknowledging the strain on the NHS and GP practices, this situation could have been avoided if the sick leave had been extended initially, followed by the option to schedule a phone call with the doctor at a later date. This would have eased the process significantly.
Ten calls to the surgery, lodging a complaint with Tani over the phone on 25/07/2022, and requesting a call from her manager McKilla have proven futile as they seem to ignore it altogether. The experience has been incredibly frustrating, with the constant calls and chasing resulting in heightened stress levels.
This situation could have escalated significantly if not for the support of my caring husband, as the surgery does not offer face-to-face appointments unless they reach out first to assess the situation.
The reception staff ought to be trained to exercise judgment or consult with a colleague if a patient indicates limited English proficiency and repeatedly requests a face-to-face appointment.
Rest assured, I will be reaching out to NHS Lothian imminently to address these concerns.
Danielle Lopez (23/07/2025, 01:42):
I have been registered with them for nearly a year. I suffer from diabetes, asthma, and heart failure. Despite my complex medical conditions, I have not been able to schedule an appointment with a doctor or nurse. It's a dire situation as I feel like a ticking time bomb, yet when attempting to change practices, Carmondean bluntly refuses to accept me, even though the NHS health board assured me they are accepting new patients. What kind of response is that? Now, my only option seems to be turning to NHS 24, which I am reluctant to do. The responsibility for any negative outcome will fall on the shoulders of the Carmondean practice manager and whoever is in charge of Barclays Practice in Livingston.
Chloe Brooks (22/07/2025, 03:39):
I have recently finished a 3-month sponsored dietary program that Shirley Forsyth suggested. I have lost a total of 21.4 kgs and significantly reduced my medication intake. I am well on my way to no longer being diabetic at all. A huge thank you to Lynsey, the delightful lady who provided me with the products and weighed me every week, as well as to Shirley for guiding me through the program. Special thanks to Barclays Medical Practice for sponsoring the diet. I am incredibly thankful to all involved!
Victoria Kim (20/07/2025, 22:51):
It's incredibly frustrating trying to schedule an appointment over the phone in the mornings, as the line is constantly busy after dozens of attempts. For busy professionals like myself, it's nearly impossible to find the time to wait on hold or stand in queue, especially while juggling getting the kids and ourselves ready for the day. It's truly disappointing that the only options for booking a GP appointment are either calling first thing in the morning or physically waiting outside the surgery.
If you're working, it becomes even more challenging to secure appointments for your children. There really needs to be an online option for pre-booking or same-day appointments to accommodate our hectic schedules.
Brian Jenkins (18/07/2025, 08:20):
I have always received top-notch service from the staff at the hospital, they are always cheerful and helpful, especially Viv, Natalie, Aneesa, Fiona, and Iain. Keep up the excellent work, guys, you do a splendid job! 👌👌👌
Dennis Scott (17/07/2025, 16:18):
The service provided here is absolutely dreadful. It seems as though there are only a handful of phone staff available, as one can find oneself waiting in the second position in the queue for over 10 minutes. The prescription service is abysmal, and the personnel behave as if one is a nuisance when inquiring about or following up on matters. One shudders to contemplate the experience if in need of urgent medical assistance.
Ava Ross (16/07/2025, 22:01):
Back in the day before Barclays stepped in, this GP surgery was dreadful, to the point where I had to pack up and leave.
However, since Barclays took charge, I decided to give it another shot and I must say, the service has been top-notch. The receptionists are welcoming without being condescending, and the nurses and GPs are incredibly helpful. It's truly the best care I've ever experienced at a GP practice.
Anthony White (16/07/2025, 10:33):
On-the-day appointments only, you've got to ring at 8am and, if you're fortunate enough to get through, you still may not secure an appointment unless they classify it as an emergency. Might as well dial an ambulance then?? Completely absurd procedure.
Riley Reyes (16/07/2025, 02:02):
I recently had my contraceptive implant removed at the hospital and it was honestly the most pleasant medical appointment I've ever experienced. The staff were incredibly kind and I had hardly any wait time before my appointment. Huge thanks to the amazing Barclay+ team!
Gregory Ramirez (10/07/2025, 15:07):
I recently visited the hospital and discovered that my address hadn't been updated despite me notifying them 18 months ago. I only found out when I didn't receive a letter about my surgery, and it turns out they were still sending mail to my old address where I haven't lived for three years. It's frustrating to see such a lack of responsibility. This is a clear example of why important information should not only be sent by mail but by email as well.
Allison Ortiz (07/07/2025, 05:15):
My lad 'ad a partially collapsed lung and now 'as a severe throat infection. We gave the practice a ring today and without even glancin' at 'is medical records, the doctor proceeded to tell 'im 'e 'ad been given antibiotics when 'e 'adn't. This just goes to show a lack of professionalism by the practice. 'E 'asn't been seen and weren't given no medication or advice other than bein' told 'e's a young man. In my view, this practice is a disgrace, and I am takin' this further.
Deborah Cook (06/07/2025, 01:51):
The service at this hospital in Scotland is truly the worst I have ever encountered. They truly deserve an award for their abysmal and unprofessional service, with aggressive staff who lack basic manners. As they say, proper manners start at home!
Leonard Gonzales (04/07/2025, 02:54):
I must say, the care I've received at this hospital has been absolutely top-notch. The nurses, Alan, and the doctor have all been simply amazing.
Betty Kim (01/07/2025, 23:26):
Utterly hopeless.
No doctors in sight, only nurses fumbling about without a clue of what they're supposed to do.
Joshua Stewart (01/07/2025, 02:08):
I received a very poor service during my visit to the hospital. The reception staff really need to take a closer look at themselves. I was informed by the doctor that my prescription had been approved and was ready, only to be told by reception that I would have to come back or wait for up to two hours.
Jonathan Jordan (27/06/2025, 18:44):
Absolutely dreadful place, I must say. Attempting to schedule a phone consultation is a hassle as it is, but securing a face-to-face appointment seems nearly unattainable. I've been a patient at this practice since its inception, and I can't recollect it ever being this dire. It's no surprise that an alarming number of individuals are passing unexpectedly; they're unable to secure an appointment when they're feeling unwell and require immediate attention. Truly an unpleasant situation.
Peter Hayes (27/06/2025, 02:14):
Barclay Medical Practice has been up and running in Carmondean for around nine months now, after a bit of a worry with the closure of the old Deans and Eliburn Practice.
I must say, we've been quite impressed with the new practice. The services offered are top-notch, the staff are helpful, the management seems to know what they're doing, and it's pretty easy for patients to get in and out.
