Overview
The complainant (Mr C) raised concerns regarding his removal from his general practitioner (GP)'s list of patients. Mr C was unhappy with the circumstances surrounding this removal and he felt that the correct procedures were not followed by his Medical Practice (the Practice).
Specific complaint and conclusion
The complaint which has been investigated is that the Practice did not follow the correct procedures in removing Mr C from their list of patients (upheld).
Redress and recommendations
The Ombudsman recommends that the Practice:
- (i) review their removal procedures in line with the guidance and regulations governing the removal of patients from practice lists. Revised procedures could incorporate suggested wording for warning and removal letters, ensuring that patients are quoted relevant timescales and advised of all options available to them; and
- (ii) apologise to Mr C for their failure to follow the correct procedure in removing him from their list.
The Practice have accepted the recommendations and will act on them accordingly.