Why are GP practices wrongly removing patients?

GP practices are removing patients inconsistently and incorrectly, sometimes due to a lack of understanding or misinterpretation of de-registration regulations, and in some cases, simply because patients made complaints.

What concerns has the Ombudsman raised about GP patient removals?

The Ombudsman has raised concerns that patients are being unfairly removed without proper warnings, discussions, or adherence to legal requirements, impacting access to essential health services.

Can patients be removed from a GP practice for making a complaint?

The report emphasizes that patients have the right to express dissatisfaction without fear of de-registration, indicating that removal solely for making a complaint is unjustifiable.

Home / Health / GPs Erase Patients Unfairly: Report Reveals Shocking Tactics

GPs Erase Patients Unfairly: Report Reveals Shocking Tactics

3 Feb

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Summary

Patients removed without warnings or discussions about behavior.
Complaints about practices led to some patients' de-registration.
Entire families removed based on one person's disagreement.

GPs Erase Patients Unfairly: Report Reveals Shocking Tactics

GP practices in Northern Ireland are reportedly removing patients in inconsistent and often incorrect ways, according to a new report from the Public Service Ombudsman (NIPSO). The report highlights that many practices may be unaware of or misinterpreting regulations governing patient de-registration. Investigations by the Ombudsman found instances where patients were unfairly removed without adherence to legal requirements or professional guidance.

Some patients were de-registered without prior warning or an opportunity to address concerns about their behavior. Alarmingly, the report notes that some patients were removed simply for lodging complaints against the practice, and some practices have de-registered entire households based on a single disagreement with one individual. The right for patients to express dissatisfaction without fear of de-registration is emphasized.