A RESIDENT has voiced his frustration after calling Halstead’s surgery 100 times – and still failing to get an appointment.

Jeff Bayly, 54, of Elm Drive, labelled the system “ridiculous” and criticised the “rat-race” every morning as residents attempt to be seen by a doctor at Elizabeth Courtauld Surgery.

He was trying to see a doctor over an ongoing cough, but has now given up after making more than 100 phone calls last Tuesday and Wednesday – only to be told there were no appointments once he finally got through.

Jeff said: “It really is impossible to get a booking or to see a doctor. It is nothing short of ridiculous.

“I work nights so I am getting up after two hours’ sleep to sit on the phone for an hour getting nowhere.

“Personally I think the whole system needs looking at. It is ridiculous and it is quite clear that this system doesn’t work.

“I know this is a country-wide issue and everyone has the same problem but we are in a situation where it is impossible to see your local doctor.

“At half past eight every morning it is like a rat race. I have actually given up now and decided I will just get by, but that is not how it should be.”

David Shedden, practice manager at the Factory Lane West surgery, said changes had been made to the booking system, but declined to reveal what they were.

He said: “The Elizabeth Courtauld Surgery has a high volume of telephone calls and requests for appointments. We have made changes to our systems to try to meet escalating demand.

Along with the rest of the NHS we are under great pressure”

September saw Dr Kolyu Kolev join the surgery and Dr Sangita Majevadia return from maternity leave, boosting staff numbers.