Data Protection Act

The practice is fully computerised and certain information is held about you on our system. This information is covered under the Data Protection Act.

Access to Medical Records

We are required to submit patient information to governing bodies as part of our requirement under the NHS. This information is normally only transferred after any patient identification details have been removed. This practice is particularly strict with regard to the confidentiality of patient information.

As a practice responsible for the training of doctors who wish to embark on a career in General Practice, we ourselves are subject to an inspection process. This involves an independent team viewing practice performance and the quality of our medical records. The purpose of this process is strictly limited to ensure that our practice complies with the education standards required from practices that train future GPs. The visiting team is subject to a strict duty of confidentiality as defined by the General Medical Council. If any patient objects to their records being inspected as described, please inform the receptionist. Your wish to opt out of the inspection process will be respected. 

Complaints

We do try to provide you with the best service possible, but realise that on occasion you may not feel this has happened. So, if you have any problems relating to your care, these can be dealt with through our Practice Manager, who would be only too happy to discuss the matter.

Suggestions

We are continually striving to improve our services. Any helpful suggestion that will assist us may be given verbally or written for the attention of the Practice Manager.

The Health Service Ombudsman in England

The Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman website contains detailed information on raising a complaint about any aspect of the NHS in England. There is also a leaflet explaining the procedure of bringing a complaint to the ombudsman.

GP Training

The Practice is actively involved with training of new doctors.

We are a designated training practice. Patients may be offered a consultation with a GP Registrar, who is a qualified Doctor, alredy experienced in hospital medicine, and now transferring to General Practice. The registrar works closely with one of our approved trainers – Dr Downs, Dr Smith, Dr Heggs and Dr Shah. As part of training we may ask if you object to having your consultation video taped. Videos are made solely for training purposes and do not affect the care you received or your medical confidentiality. Videos are destroyed immediately after viewing by the two doctors concerned. Should you object to this, kindly let the Reception Staff know on arrival. By exercising your rights, your subsequent care remains unaffected.

As part of our commitment to supporting the training of future Doctors, the practice also provides training for final year medical students. Patients will be asked if they agree to be seen while a student is in attendance. Refusal will not affect your care.