Confidentiality
The practice is subject to a range of legislation covering the information that we collect about our patients. Confidentiality is very important and all the doctors and staff work to strict guidelines to ensure that information about patients is kept securely in the practice.
However, there are times when properly authorised people outside the Practice have access to our medical records.
These include the following: -
Health & Social Care Board and the Business Services Agency (formerly Central Services Agency) who, as part of their probity work, occasionally check records against claims made for payment for the provision of services. The practice is subject to the following legislation, which tells us what our responsibilities are relating to the data we hold on patients, and what rights patients and other interested parties have to access that information: - Data Protection Act 1988 and Freedom of Information Act 2000.
The Practice adheres to the requirements of the Medicines Act for the storage, prescribing, dispensing, recording and disposal of drugs including controlled drugs.
If you would like more information about how the Practice complies with legislation, please put your request in writing to the Practice Manager.
Complaints
We welcome helpful suggestions and operate a practice complaints procedure for dealing with Health Service complaints. Our procedure meets agreed criteria set for all of the Health and Personal Social Services.
Our Practice Manager Jacqueline Russell will give you further information if required and welcome any comments on our service.
Patients' Rights
You will be treated with respect and as a partner in your care. Being a partner means you have responsibilities too.
We will:
- Ensure our patients have 24-hour access to medical advice.
- Aim for you to have access to a suitably qualified medical professional within 48 hours of your initial contact during surgery hours, or in an urgent case, the same day.
- Work in partnership with you to achieve the best medical care possible.
- Involve you and listen to your opinions and views in all aspects of your medical care.
- The prevention of disease, illness and injury is a primary concern.
The medical staff will advise and inform you of the steps you can take to promote good health and a healthy lifestyle. We would respectfully ask that you:
- Let us know if you intend to cancel an appointment or are running late.
- Treat staff with courtesy and respect. Reception staff may have to ask some personal questions to assist us in providing you with the best service
- Inform the practice staff of any alterations in your circumstances, such as change of surname, address or telephone number. Please ensure that we have your correct telephone number, even if it’s ex-directory.
As patients, you are responsible for your own health and that of any dependents. It is important that you adhere to information and advice given to you by health professionals, and co-operate with the practice in endeavouring to keep you healthy.