You have the right to receive information about the services your GP provides. The practice website will inform you about the standards of service you can expect from the surgery and the ways in which you can help the practice. In the website we have set out our practice charter which we believe meets our obligation to provide accurate, clear information on services and standards to our patients. In return we expect our patients to:
- Make themselves familiar with the information in the practice booklet.
- Observe the timings/procedures given for appointments, telephone calls, prescriptions etc.
- Be punctual for appointments. Please cancel an appointment if you cannot keep it.
- Inform the practice of changes in personal details, i.e. changes of name or address.
- Treat our staff with respect and courtesy.
- Be patient when there are delays as this is often inevitable in general practice.
- Take time to observe the notices in the waiting area. These are displayed to inform you of relevant surgery or local information.
The Patients Charter
Under the patients charter you have the following rights:
- To be offered a health check when you join a GP’s practice for the first time.
- You can ask for a health check if you are between 16 and 74 and have not seen your GP in the last three years.
Drugs and Medicines
You have the right to be prescribed appropriate drugs and medicines.
If you are a pensioner, a child under 16 or under 19 and in full-time education, pregnant or a nursing mother, suffering from one of a number of specified individual conditions, or on income support or family credit, you have a right to get your medicines free.