POLICY FOR INFORMING PATIENTS OF RESULTS OF INVESTIGATIONS
The process for informing patients, or where appropriate, families and carers of the results of investigations is very dependant upon the individual, the circumstances and the results of the investigation.
Our general policy is that the doctor will contact you if there is a need to address anything, but if you have not heard anything and wish to check, please contact the practice reception 3 weeks after the investigation.
Your doctor will inform you of this policy at the point of initiating the investigation.
Practice nurses and Health Care Assistants will check that you are aware of and endorse this policy at the point of testing.
PATIENTS INFORMATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION
We have a reference folder about various medical problems and other information in our waiting room. Please feel free to read the folder and copies of leaflets can be requested at reception.
Your Rights And Responsibilites
All surgeries are by appointment and these can be made by telephone or in person at reception. Every attempt will be made to fit urgent cases into the next available surgery on the same day. The practice also has the authority to remove from the list, any patients who constantly abuse the appointments system. Please telephone to cancel your appointment if it is no longer needed, so your appointment can be allocated to another patient.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION (Scotland) ACT 2002
Came into force on 1st January 2005 and enables any person requesting information from a public body to receive that information, subject to certain exemptions. This is to encourage public authorities (GP practices) to be more open and accountable and organise their information in an efficient and accessible way. This excludes personal data. The practice Publication Scheme Document is available to view, please contact the practice manager for more information.
Access to Medical Records & Data Protection
You are entitled to access your clinical records held by the practice. This should be done in writing, stating exactly what information you require. A charge may apply for this request of between £10-£50 maximum.
Practice Leaflet - Access to Medical Records
Confidentiality of Records
Practices undergo regular visits by external assessors, whose purpose is to verify the process of the practices’ quality of care to the patient. They may need to view records of random patients. The visiting team adheres to a strict code of confidentiality. If you do not wish your records to be inspected, please inform the practice manager.
IF A PATIENT IS VIOLENT OR ABUSIVE
This practice operates a zero-tolerance policy of verbal or physical aggression towards any practice staff. The practice has the right to remove patients from the list because of persisting unacceptable behaviour.