Non discriminatory policy
This practice has an equal opportunities policy for
patients. The aim is to ensure that no patient receives
less favourable treatment on the grounds of sex, race,
colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin or disability.
The practice will do its utmost to ensure that all patients
are treated fairly and the practice environment is free
from discrimination and harassment. We can access the
following services o your behalf, although prior management
may be necessary:
Medical records and confidentiality
We are registered under the Data Protection Act. We keep
all patients details on computer to help maintain accurate
records and more efficient administration. Should you require
to see your records please contact reception. We give the
highest priority to confidentiality. Medical records are not
disclosed to anyone outside the practice without written consent.
All members of the practice are bound by strict rules and
even the fact you have attended the surgery is regarded as
confidential.
Privacy during consultations & examinations
It is the policy of this practice to respect the privacy
and dignity of our patients. If you would like a chaperone
to be present during a physical examination by a doctor or
other health professional you may be consulting at the surgery
or if you would prefer to be examined by a doctor or health
professional of the same sex as yourself, please let us know
and we will do our best to comply with your wishes.
Violent and abusive patients
The practice has a zero tolerance policy with regard
to violent or abusive patients. The definition of violence:
'Any incident where a GP or his/her staff are abused,
threatened or assaulted in circumstances related to
their work, involving, explicit or implicit challenge
to their safety, well being or health'.
If an incident occurs, the practice will telephone
the police and that patient may be referred to the Violent
Patient Service provided by the Horsham & Chanctonbury
PCT and could be removed from the patient list.
Complaints policy
We operate a practice complaints procedure as part of the
NHS system for dealing with complaints. Our system meets with
national criteria. Our practice Complaints Leaflet gives details
of the complaints process and is available from reception.
Our aim is to give you the highest possible standard of service
and we will endeavour to resolve your problem as quickly as
possible. Liz Coulthard, Practice Executive Manager is the
designated Complaints Manager, please contact her on 01798
872815.
Patients can also contact the Patient Advisory Liaison Service
(PALS) through Maureen Vallon PALS Manager at West Sussex
PCT (Tel 01403 223300).
Freedom of Information Act
The Freedom of Information Act became law on 30 November
2000. Dr Hard & Partners conform to the requirements of
the Freedom of Information Act and have produced a publication
scheme in accordance with the Act; a copy of the Act is available
from the Freedom of Information Act website: www.foi.nhs.uk.
A practice copy can be requested from the Practice Executive
Manager – Liz Coulthard or viewed on the PMG website.
Pulborough Patient Link
Our patient liaison group (PPL) is now established with a
committee. They produce newsletters and organise health and
social events. This group provides an important link between
the surgery and patients. We hope that many patients will
become members and be involved in helping to shape the future
of their medical service for the years ahead. Anyone wishing
to become a member can obtain an application form from the
surgery or contact Jayne Aylott, membership secretary, on
01798 872823.
You can view the PPL's website at www.ppl.org.uk
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