"I rang to book an emergency dental appointment 0845 155 0845"

I was told that at 16: 45 I couldn't book an appointment for the following day, (all of todays appointments had gone) which I appreciate. Fine I'll book one for tomorrow then........

I was then asked to ring back 09: 00 tomorrow on the same number and probably speak to the same person to be alloted an appointment, on a first come first served basis........I asked why couldn't I just book it now. ( The problem I have was qualified as an emergency, and what was going to change overnight) I was told those are the rules, and because you are an emergency clinic like an A & E you only work on that basis.

This is how tomorrow looks for me I go to work at 08: 00, 10 miles away, ring you at 09: 00, to be given an appointment time, I leave work drive back for 10 miles, come to you, to go back to work another 10 miles. My day is in chaos, and feels unorganised, I will have to cancel some of my own appointments with my clients, but I don't know which because I don't know when you can see me.

Had I been alloted a time, at the first call. You would know what time I'm due, so do I. Less chance of last minute delays traffic problems etc, I can arrange my day more effectively we all win don't we?

Instead I'm making an extra call the next day, to a no doubt very busy reception desk (because were all trying to book appointment at the same time), no doubt more exasperated patients because were all getting the same engaged tone...and to cap it all your staff are having to deal with the same enquiry twice. Surely there is a better, more efficient and cost effective way to organise this service.