Useful information for patients and service users.
We are committed to providing a safe, comfortable environment where patients and staff can be confident that best practice is being followed, and that the safety of everyone is a high priority.
You are entitled to have a formal chaperone join you for any consultation, examination or procedure. This will be a trained member of our staff.
Please let us know when you request an appointment if you would like a chaperone to join you for your appointment. We will make a member of the team to be available.
Your healthcare professional may also require a chaperone to be present for certain consultations in accordance with our chaperone policy.
You are also welcome to have a family member or friend accompany you for your appointment if you wish however this is not a formal chaperone.
Patients sometimes attend the GP practice or request GP appointments because they have a dental problem (which may include toothache, dental abscess, gum problems or problems following dental procedures).
GPs are not trained in diagnosing or treating dental conditions and are not indemnified to do so.
GPs cannot provide antibiotics for dental issues as it is important to have a full assessment by a dentist. Antibiotics alone may not treat the issue and other dental treatment may be required. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can also potentially mask the dental condition and make it harder for your dentist for diagnose, leading to a delay in definitive management. Dentists can prescribe antibiotics if they decide that is the correct course of treatment following a thorough dental assessment. Any prescription for treatment needs to come from your dentist.
We would advise you to register with a local dentist for regular check-ups, and for routine and emergency care.
If you are not registered with a dentist or have a dental emergency – please call 111 who can book you for emergency dental assessment and care.
We operate a zero-tolerance policy for abusive or coercive behaviour. We aim to be helpful and polite to all our patients regardless of age, ethnicity, disability, gender or sexual orientation. We define unacceptable behaviour as:
- Inappropriate or unwanted behaviour
- Bullying or harassment
- Verbal, physical or emotional abuse
- Discrimination based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation.
The above applies to activity on any Nexus premises, on the telephone, and online (posts/comments/uploads online or on social media).
Threats of harm
We take all concerns about suicide seriously and encourage anyone in crisis to seek urgent support. However, using threats of self-harm or suicide to influence clinical decision-making is not acceptable. We will signpost individuals to appropriate crisis services when needed.
Removal
Discriminatory, unsocial, threatening, violent or abusive behaviour towards staff, other patients or the premises will not be tolerated. We consider Nexus Health Group will take action in these circumstances, which may involve the Police and result in the removal of the patient from our practice list.
In England, please refer to NHS Constitution your rights and responsibilities for further information.
