Appointments
There are different ways to get medical help from a clinician, depending on your needs and preferences.
A face-to-face appointment may not always be necessary. Other clinicians such as Advanced Nurse Practitioners may also deal with issues for which patients may previously have seen Doctors.
Online consultations
You can contact our clinical team through SystmConnect, our online consultation system, from any internet-connected device. You can check your symptoms, get self-help advice or send a message directly to the practice team. Messages will be checked during work hours, and we will get back to you within 2 working days.
Contact us through SystmConnect.
A clinician may invite you to book an appointment or suggest another form of treatment. Often, our team can resolve common patient issues without you needing to visit the surgery.
SystmConnect is quick, secure and easy to use. Many patients enjoy the instant access, flexibility and quick resolutions it offers.
Those unable to access online forms & need to contact by calling in-person, or over the phone
For the small minority of patients who do not have access to the internet or a relative / friend to do this for them you can still phone the surgery 0191 265 5755 or visit us at Biddlestone Road and a receptionist will fill in a form on your behalf. We are open Monday 8.30am to 8.00pm, Tuesday to Friday 8.30am to 6.00pm.
You will be asked about your issue by a member of our practice team – staff do this to ensure all the necessary information is collected so the inquiry is directed to the best person to help with your problem. Staff are trained to do this, and anything you say to them is confidential.
Standard appointments are 10 minutes and for one patient and one issue. If you think you will need more time, you may need to request a double appointment.
We will always try to accommodate requests for specific times or clinicians, but please be aware that some options may not be available or may lead to a longer wait.
Cancelling Appointments
If you know you won’t be able to attend a scheduled appointment or no longer need the one you have booked, please make every effort to let us know.
Please contact us on 0191 265 5755 or at [email protected]. We are open Monday 8.30am to 8.00pm, Tuesday to Friday 8.30am to 6.00pm.
You may also be able to amend or cancel an appointment using the NHS App or through SystmOnline, if you are signed up for those services.
By cancelling your unneeded appointment, we can offer the slot to another patient who needs it.
Book online with SystmOne or through the NHS App
Available appointments can also be viewed, booked and amended or cancelled using either SystmOne or the NHS App.