A DOCTOR'S surgery has been given a revamp.

Belgrave Medical Centre, in Longton, has been refurbished with a new reception and waiting rooms.

The surgery now has a call centre room on the first floor, with three people dedicated to manning the phones, along with two receptionists on the ground floor to meet and greet patients without the interruption of answering calls.

The reception area is now open plan but should there be the need for privacy, the design provides a room for the patients.

The waiting room allows easy access for people with disabilities and the infirm.

The majority of the refurbishment was funded by the surgery itself with some money from an NHS Stoke-on-Trent improvement grant.

Practice manager Debbie Morgan said: "Having worked at Belgrave Medical Centre for more than 19 years, I know most of the patients and have an excellent working relationship with them so that allowed me to ask our patients what they would like to see improved.

"As a result of this more organised way of working, the phones get answered far quicker and the reception and waiting rooms are a lot quieter for the patients."

Dr Prasad Rao, who runs Belgrave Medical Centre, said: "When Debbie approached me about the changes, I fully endorsed the plan.

"Not only does Belgrave Medical Centre look fantastic, but it just operates in a more professional manner and the patients must be thrilled with their new practice."

The waiting room also boasts Envisage TV, which broadcasts patient information, and a touch screen for checking in.