Practice Charter

The Doctors' Responsibilities

You will be treated as an individual, in a courteous manner, and will be respected at all times.
You have the right to be confidentiality in respect of your health needs.
Respect for religious and cultural beliefs will be honoured.
You have the right to request a chaperone to be present during an examination. If you would like one please ask the doctor or nurse.
You have a right to information about your own health - illness and treatment, possible side effects, prevention or recurring illness etc.
We will offer medical advice and information for promotion of good health.
You have the right to see your own medical records subject to the limitations of the law.
On registering as a new patient, you will be offered a health check with the nurse.
If your doctor believes you need a second opinion, then they will arrange this.
You will be given a time to see a doctor in accordance with the system used in this practice. If there is a substantial delay for any reason, you will be given an explanation.
Routine referral letters for hospital appointments will normally be dispatched within two working days of the referral being agreed with the doctor.
Urgent referrals for hospital appointments may be faxed, telephoned or handwritten for a patient to take to hospital.

We ask that you treat all practice staff and fellow patients with courtesy and respect.
Please arrive on time for your appointment, which is for one person only.
If you need an appointment for another member of the family please inform reception.
You are responsible for your own health and that of your children.
Please take the advice given to you at the practice.
Let us know immediately if you change your address or name and remember to give your phone number and postcode.
Please attend Accident & Emergency when it is truly an emergency. Your centre has most of the facilities and will provide better care for non emergency situations.
Please read the entire practice booklet to get the best out of the services available.
You can discuss any medical matter with the doctor, including asking for a second opinion.
Where an appointment or acknowledgement of a routine referral for a hospital appointment is not received within three weeks, contact the hospital concerned.