These systems give practices a group of numbers, each is used for different staff (extensions), including the main IVR (menu). If you can find one, the IVR number may be within that range.

For example, supposing you find the number 01484 123467 goes through to one of the practice's extensions (such as a direct number for a staff member). The 0844 number usually goes through to an IVR which is based on a geographic number at the surgery. So, you might find that 01484 123450 is the alternative.

In the past, I have found on the internet clues in the form of:

• a member of staff's direct number, such as one given on a website advertising a job at the surgery in question.
• a direct number for district nurses when they are based at the surgery in question.
• a geographic fax number which is within the main range. Not all are, some are just numbers on their own.

You may also find numbers written down at the surgery, for example a list of outside geographic numbers for staff and rooms at the surgery.

Start a new thread for your surgery if you would like some help with this.