Papanui Medical Centre

Amazing doctors, have been coming here for over 30 years.nnBut, when you're dealing with urgent issues that aren't life threatening in children the last thing you need is to be talked down at by receptionists with no medical background.nnTake the notes, do what's asked, and be polite. Stay in your lane. Simple.nnReign your support staff in, it's unacceptable.

This isn’t my usual GP practice, I was sent there today for a sleep assessment. All the staff I came into contact with were absolutely lovely. Mat, the nurse I saw, was friendly with my children I’d had to bring them with me and explained everything very clearly. The receptionists were friendly too, and kind to my children.nAside from this, there was plenty of parking and the waiting room had a space for children which kept them occupied.nIf I was looking for a new GP practice I would register here based on this experience.

Had a couple of run ins with my gp last year when I was going through physical symptoms due to a newly found auto immune disorder. Addressed it, stuck with her and moved forward as I had really enjoyed my doctor/patient relationship with before then. However, my recent dealing with one of the nurses over the phone while my usual gp was on leave was appalling. I have been anaemic for many weeks now in my third trimester of pregnancy but do not qualify for infusion funding. Was told they would not administer me one even at my own cost, but with very little explanation as to why just that I was in my third trimester so they couldn’t give it to me. After reaching out again to basically beg for them to give me one, I was met with a different nurse, the most condescending nurse phone call I think I’ve ever experienced. Comments like “you’ve already had this explained to you” when I asked for further information as to why I couldn’t have one even when self funded, “I’ve had children too Lucy” as if to imply she’s lived my personal experience and a very harsh and brutal manner with myself, while I was crying on the other end of the phone call. Any time I have tried to validate and speak up for myself when I feel I am not being heard and am really in need of help and support, I’ve been left to feel like a burden, and quite frankly like I’m a pain in the ass. Before getting unwell in ‘25 my experiences with Papanui medical had been overly positive. Was this because I was an easy patient who only visited for the odd dose of antibiotics or anxiety medication? You are a medical practise who is supposed to be there to support your patients when sick. I am in disbelief at the lack of empathy and compassion shown. Do better!

Practice manager is rude and condescending. Doctors at this medical centre are great but I've had nothing but issues dealing with reception and upper level staff.

Needed a last minute appointment and got one on the same day. Reception was extremely empathic. Thanks so much

Directions to Papanui Medical Centre with public transportation

---