Violence Statement

In exceptional circumstances it may be necessary for the practice to remove patients from the practice list. Such examples are:

Unacceptable behaviour:
From a patient that is directed towards any member of the primary healthcare team or towards patients or others on practice premises. For example:

• Physical violence
• Any type of verbal or physical abuse, including threats or gestures
• Any type of discriminatory abuse
• Intentional damage to practice premises
• Sexual and racial harassment
• Stalking
• Inappropriate emotional attachment to the doctor

Crime and deception

• Example - fraudulently obtaining drugs Deliberately lying to the doctor or other member of the healthcare team, by giving a false name or false medical history, in order to obtain a service or benefit by deception

Distance

• A patient has moved out of the designated practice area but has failed to de-register with the practice.

If you are to be removed from the practice list, you will be informed in writing of the practice decision and the reason for removal. You will also be given information on how to begin the process of registering with another practice.

If violence has been an issue, the Eastern Health and Social Services Board will have the responsibility for ensuring you receive primary care services, if necessary within a more secure setting.

Details of other primary medical services in the area may be obtained from

Health and Social Care Board
Champion House
12-22 Linenhall Street
Belfast
BT2 8BS