Bridge Cottage Surgery

Receptionists are not ‘just admin’ — they are patient advocates, navigating complex systems to get people the care they need. They are the gateway to the clinical team, and without them, there is no access.

But constant abuse is pushing them to breaking point. Burnout is rising, and we are losing skilled staff who can no longer absorb the emotional toll. This campaign is a call for compassion — because protecting our reception teams protects access to care. You don't know what happened on the call they just took..

Please watch the video below...

We have listened to your feedback regarding call waiting times and are committed to providing a faster more convenient way to book appointments and request prescriptions - anytime, without waiting in a call queue!

How Does it Work?

Using the 24hr automated phone service is simple:

• Call Bridge Cottage Surgery on 01438 715044 and select option 1 or dial 01483 339249
• For appointments, enter your Date of Birth and phone number for secure verification.
• To request prescriptions, you will need a personal PIN. For your first use, please contact our admin team to receive your unique PIN.

What can I do via the automated service?

• Cancel appointments
• Book appointments for minor illness (pharmacy first service)
• Book appointments with musculoskeletal specialist (Chartered Physiotherapist)
• Book some nurse appointments
• Request fit notes
• Order prescriptions
• Please note that GP appointments are not currently available through the automated service.

Benefits for Patients:

• No queue
• No waiting
• Available 24/7 – Anytime, day or night.

With patients' needs at the heart of everything we do, our website has been designed to make it easy for you to gain instant access to the information you need.

As well as specific practice details such as opening hours and how to register, you’ll find a wealth of useful pages covering a wide range of health issues along with links to other relevant medical organisations.

Bridge Cottage Surgery,  41 High Street, Welwyn, Hertfordshire AL6 9EF

We encourage you to use the NHS App to view your test results and medical records. 

You can download the NHS App and access your results from the convenience of your phone/tablet or PC using the links below:

Access NHS App

Access NHS on computer

You Tube Guide to NHS Login for Patients