INFORMATION

Violent / Abusive Patients
The practice has a zero tolerance policy with regard to violent/abusive patients The definition of violence: "Any incident where a GP or staff are, abused, threat or assaulted in circumstances related to their work, involving an explicit or implied challenge to their safety, well being or health".
If an incident occurs, the practice will telephone the police and the patient may be removed from the practice list.

Sickness Certificates
You do not need a doctors DSS certificate if you are off work for 7 days or less (including weekends). For employed people this is covered by a "self certificate" (SC2) which is available on request from your employer. If self or unemployed, you will need an SC1 certificate obtainable from the surgery, DHSS or Post Office. If you are ill for 7 days or more, or if you need a Private Certificate, you need to see your doctor.   

Laboratory Specimens
Please make sure all containers are fully labelled, accompanied by a request form and placed in the appropriate sealed plastic bag, otherwise the laboratory is unable to process them. Please hand the specimen to reception before 10.00am.

Investigations and X-Ray Results
Patients will be contacted should they need to be seen as a result of their investigation or X-Ray. 

Disabled Access
The practice is fully accessible for disabled people with suitable toilet facilities. A wheelchair is available and staff are happy to help patients with access. Please advise the receptionist if you will require the wheelchair or help when you book your appointment.

Carers
We care about carers. We have a dedicated file at the surgery where you will find information provided to us by various organisations.  Please have a look when you are next visiting us.  For further help and information please contact Sue Whitlock (Carers Liason) 0n 01403 730016.

A useful link is http://www.carerssupport.org.uk. 

Interpreting and Translation
The practice does not offer an interpretation or translation service. Patients requiring help with English should ask a friend or relative to assist.

Primary Care Trust
The Practice is part of the West Sussex NHS, 1 The Causeway, Worthing, West Sussex. West Sussex NHS is the government's chosen way to develop primary healthcare and commission secondary healthcare in West Sussex in line with the NHS plan.

Freedom of Information
The Freedom of Information Act 2000, recognises that members of the public have the right to know how public services are organised and run, how much they cost, and how decisions are made. This Practice fully complies with this Act, if you require a copy, please contact the Practice Manager for further details.

Patient Confidentiality
This Practice complies with the Data Protection Act 1998 and operates a patient confidentiality policy for all services provided. Under the Data Protection Act, you are entitled to access clinical records or any other personal information held about you. Personal and Medical details will only be released to the patient, legal guardian, or others with the patient's written request. Please contact the Practice Manager for further information and costs if applicable.

Complaints
We operate a Practice Complaints Procedure as part of the NHS system for dealing with complaints, our system meets the national criteria. The Practice Manager, will give you further information and our Practice Complaints leaflet gives details of the procedure and is available from reception. We aim to give you the highest possible standard of service and will try to deal swiftly with any problems that may occur.

Chaperones
Please request a chaperone if you require one and the examining Doctor will arrange one for you.

Non NHS Services
Medical examinations for special purposes eg. elderly drivers, sports fitness, fitness to travel, fitness to drive, HGV licences, pre-employment/employment, adoption and BUPA/PPP forms. These are private services for which a FEE is payable. Please allow five working days for the completion of any forms.

Parking and Disabled Access
There is ample parking at the front of the surgery. Please comply with the restricted parking signs for staff. Patients are requested not to enter the Doctor's parking area as this causes problems in an emergency. No difficulties should be encountered by using the surgery premises. Assistance is always available if required.