Patients Charter

As an NHS registered patient with this practice you are entitled to:

• Courtesy and respect from the staff;
• Privacy and confidentiality when speaking to a member of staff;
• Be given an appointment the same day if you need to see a doctor urgently;
• Be seen by a doctor of your choice within 5 working days, subject to sickness and holidays;
• Be seen within 30 minutes of your appointment time (open surgeries excluded). If for any reason you cannot be seen within this time, an explanation will be given;
• A clear explanation of treatment proposed for you by any member of the practice team;
• A health check when registering;
• Expect your medications to be reviewed regularly if you are receiving repeat prescriptions;
• Be referred to a consultant when your GP feels it is necessary to be referred for a second opinion;
• Have access to your records (fee payable);
• Have telephone enquiries answered promptly and dealt with effectively;
• Be informed of test, x-ray, and outpatient results upon request.

You can help us to help you by:

• Treating our staff with courtesy;
• Giving the doctor all the relevant information about your condition and past medical history;
• Letting us know when you move or change your telephone number;
• Keeping appointments or giving as much notice as possible if you need to cancel;
• Using your appointment for one person only;
• Complying with medication and clinical reviews and recalls;
• Not expecting a prescription every time you see the doctor – taking advice is often more effective than drugs;
• Giving 24 hours notice before collecting prescription;
• Remembering if you need a home visit to make your request before 10:00am;
• Ringing the practice nurse for test results;
• The self-management of common illnesses. For self-limited illnesses there is no need to consult a GP;
• Using our services wisely.