Two Birmingham GP surgeries have achieved near-perfect patient satisfaction scores, placing them among the best in the country according to the 2026 GP Patient Survey. Queslett Medical Centre in Great Barr and Dr Kulshrestha Summerfield Family Practice in Winson Green both recorded a 97% approval rate, meaning almost all patients are happy with the care and service they receive.
Surgeries in Unexpected Locations Outperform
The surgeries are not located in Birmingham's more affluent areas such as Sutton Coldfield or Edgbaston, which might typically be associated with higher satisfaction levels. Instead, they serve communities in Great Barr and Winson Green, demonstrating that quality of care is not confined to wealthier neighbourhoods.
The near-perfect scores reflect high levels of patient contentment across multiple aspects of service, including ease of getting through on the phone, waiting times, and the helpfulness of reception staff. These factors contribute to an overall positive experience for patients.
Survey Details and National Context
The GP Patient Survey is conducted annually, inviting patients to rate their experiences as very good, good, poor, or very poor. The 97% approval ratings place these two Birmingham practices among the top performers nationwide, with scores that are exceptional in a national context.
According to the survey results, the high approval scores indicate that patients feel their needs are being met effectively, from initial contact to the quality of consultations. The consistency of positive feedback suggests a strong patient-practice relationship.
Contrast with Lowest-Rated Practice
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Naseby Medical Centre in Saltley received only a 38% approval rating from its patients. This stark contrast highlights significant disparities in patient experience across different parts of the city, raising questions about access to quality healthcare in various communities.
The low score at Naseby Medical Centre may prompt further investigation into the factors affecting patient satisfaction, such as appointment availability, staff communication, or facility conditions. It underscores the need for targeted improvements in practices where patients report lower levels of satisfaction.
Implications for Healthcare in Birmingham
The success of Queslett Medical Centre and Dr Kulshrestha Summerfield Family Practice demonstrates that high-quality primary care is achievable in diverse urban settings. Their performance could serve as a model for other practices aiming to improve patient satisfaction.
Local health officials may look to these top-performing surgeries to identify best practices that can be shared across the region. This could include effective telephone systems, efficient appointment scheduling, and patient-centered communication strategies.
For patients in Birmingham, the survey results offer valuable insights into which practices are excelling in patient care, helping them make informed choices about their healthcare providers. The findings also reinforce the importance of regular patient feedback in shaping services.
