Chaperones

There are occasions when patients need to be examined by a doctor which may involve intimate examinations. In these circumstances it is usual for another person to be present at these times to safe-guard the doctor and the patient – a chaperone. The doctor will usually suggest a chaperone for these examinations, although you may choose to decline. If you wish a chaperone to be present at any time please do not hesitate to ask the doctor. It may not be possible for a chaperone to be available immediately and you may have to return for the examination to be carried out at a mutually convenient time.

Disabled Patients

There is full wheelchair access at the surgeries and also a disabled toilet.

Suggestions For Improvement

We are always happy to receive patients’ comments as to how we can improve the services we offer. A suggestions box is provided at reception.

Temporary Residents

You are entitled to see a doctor anywhere in the UK if you are away from home and in need of medical help. We will therefore be happy to see any relative or friends staying with you if they need a doctor.

Removal of Patients From The Practice List

Unfortunately, on occasions, it can be necessary for us to remove a patient from our practice list. The practice operates a Zero Tolerance Policy whereby should any patient prove to be violent or abusive to any member of the practice or to other persons on the practice premises then they will be removed from the panel. On removing a patient from our list we will provide a reason in writing together with details on how to register with another doctor wherever possible.

Freedom Of Information – Publication Scheme

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 obliges the practice to produce a Publication Scheme. A Publication Scheme is a guide to the ‘classes’ of information the practice intends to routinely make available.
This scheme is available from the practice manager.

Access to Medical Records

The practice is fully computerised and most of your medical records are held on computer. You have a right under the Data Protection Act 1998 to view or have a copy of information held by the practice, which personally identifies you. If you would like to view your records please contact the practice manager for an appointment. There is no charge to view but a charge of up to £10.00 can be made for administration and time involved if copies are required. You will be required to provide identification as necessary.

Copies of Correspondence

If you are referred to a consultant or other service and would like a copy of the referral letter then please ask the doctor who can arrange for you to receive/collect this from the surgery.