If you think an immediate visit is required, please tell the receptionist. In cases of major injury or critical condition, it may be more appropriate to go directly to your local Casualty department. If an ambulance is required, dial 999.
Our GP Practice is keen that we make the best use of our clinical staff allowing them to provide the most appropriate care to those most in need. For the vast majority of patients attending an appointment at the Surgery is the best option for them and for the Practice staff. Attending a surgery allows our clinical team to see many more patients in a day than if we are undertaking home visits. A doctor could see 4-6 other equally needy patients in the time it takes for a home visit.
- Doctors are only able to consider home visits for medical reasons only
- If you think you qualify for a home visit, please ring before 10.00am (except in case of emergency)
- All visits requested will be medically assessed to check if appropriate
- The GP may telephone, ensure you leave a current mobile number to be contacted on
The receptionist will inform the duty doctor of your request, or seek immediate advice in an emergency. The doctor may need to speak to you before visiting if more information is required. Otherwise, you will receive a visit as soon as possible.
Please note that the duty doctor generally may have several house calls to make that day. These will be prioritised appropriately by the doctor.
Please refrain from ringing to check when the doctor is coming, unless your situation has changed for the worse and you have urgent concerns. Our receptionists will be happy to assist you in that instance.
If you think you may need a home visit
We would kindly ask any patient who is mobile (including using a walking aid, wheelchair or scooter) to see us in the surgery. If you are poorly and think you need an urgent same day visit, please ring your request through to the Practice.
Always provide a current landline/mobile number that the Doctor can reach you on.
Home visits, whilst convenient for patients, actually offer a poorer standard of care compared to surgery consultations. This is because of:
- Poor facilities (e.g. poor lighting, lack of hygiene)
- Lack of records and chaperones (required for safe care and examination)
The majority of consultations during home visit could easily and safely be carried out in the surgery.
You can also be visited at home by a community nurse if you are referred by your GP. You should also be visited at home by a health visitor if you have recently had a baby or if you are newly registered with a GP and have a child under five years.
