Appointments
We ask the reason for all appointments this will mean you will be asked by a member of reception what your appointment is for – this is not intended to cause distress and our receptionists are bound by the code of confidentiality, they have been requested to obtain this information to ensure you are getting the correct and appropriate clinical appointment, this information is at the doctors request.
Failure to disclose this information can result in a delay or inappropriate appointment
The surgery appointment availability runs from 07:30 – 18:00. The telephone lines are open between 08:00 and 18:30. We have telephone appointments that can be booked on the day for acute problems and children under 5 years old, also appointments that can be pre-booked up to 2 weeks in advance. For GP availability please check with reception, availability to see a doctor of your choice will depend upon holiday leave, sickness absence, demand and the fact that some doctors work on a part time basis.
You may also request a telephone consultation with the nurse if you do not feel it is necessary to have a face to face consultation. Please inform the receptionist and she will advise you of the procedure. Online booking is also available. Please ask at reception for details.
How to make an appointment
Please call our main switchboard number 0161 357 2300 to book an appointment. You can also book an appointment online via our electronic booking system (Online Services) and follow the links. Urgent cases are seen on the day. If your condition is non-urgent, you can expect to see a GP within two working days, though you may have to wait longer if you want to see a particular GP. If you don’t need an appointment within two working days, you also have the option to book up to 6 weeks in advance if this is more convenient for you. It is also possible to book to a telephone consultation with a GP or nurse if you wish.
What if I can’t get an appointment?
If your appointment is not urgent, try to book on a less busy day after 10:30. You can book to have a telephone consultation with a GP if you wish; he/she will ring you at an agreed time on the telephone number you have provided. You can also visit the Integrated Care Centre (ICC) in the centre of Oldham - the ICC provides advice and treatment for a range of minor illnesses and injuries, if you or someone else experiences severe chest pain, loss of blood or suspected broken bones, go to your nearest accident and emergency department or call 999.
Why might it be difficult to get an appointment?
The surgery is particularly busy during the morning period and we have to deal with various phone calls and queries. If your appointment is not urgent try to book after 10:30 or via the online booking system. If we can’t offer you an immediate appointment, we may be able to offer you an appointment for a future date or you can book to have a telephone consultation with a GP or nurse if you wish.
What do I do in an emergency?
If you need medical advice during surgery hours, please phone the main switchboard on 0161 357 2300. Please be prepared to give some information to the receptionist.
Nurse Practitioner
The nurse practitioner can treat a range of acute problems such as ear and throat infections, rashes and cystitis. Kathryn can provide general advice and triage if you are not sure who to see.
Practice Nurses/Healthcare Assistant/Other Clinical Staff
Appointments for any of the above can be requested any time during surgery opening hours. We regularly monitor our appointment availability together with the number of wasted appointments (due to non-attendance) with the aim of providing improved access to patients.
Chaperones
The practice has a policy of offering a chaperone during all intimate examinations. You have the right to ask for a chaperone at any time if the doctor wishes to examine you.
Missed Appointments
Please follow the link to our Practice policy.
Did Not Attend (DNA) Policy