Enter and view: St George’s Practice

Healthwatch Blackburn with Darwen undertook an enter and view visit to St George's Practice on 23 April 2024.  They spoke to 18 patients and 5 staff members.

The surgery is easily located on a main road and on a bus route. The practice has a reasonable amount of car parking facilities that are close to the building, and three dedicated disabled parking spaces. However, it was noted that the parking can be difficult.

Representatives observed the building to be clean, brightly lit and well maintained. The building is generally accessible, and its environment is welcoming. There were some issues with the acoustics in the room, due to the high ceiling, and Healthwatch observed that it was difficult to hear and speak to the reception staff in the main area. The waiting room was decorated with informative displays, leaflets and other material to assist patients. 

Positive comments were made about the Practice Manager, getting appointments with ease, and overall, the staff being “lovely.” While a few concerns were raised about the opening hours, others were happy.

 The practice appears to utilise social prescribing within the practice, with displays visible in the waiting room, with some patients knowing what social prescribing was.

The practice appears professional, flexible, and transparent and typified by rigorous monitoring, policies and procedures. 

Staff were happy in their work and felt supported by management. Some receptionists had previously worked at other practices, and they all appreciated how well the system works at St George’s Practice.