on 12 Jul 98, [log in to unmask] wrote...
>allan harris <[log in to unmask]> writes
>>unwilling to bring them to the centre.
>
>>How do others tackle this problem? Is it widespread?
>
It was interesting to see this discussion crop up. I have recently had to deal
with a 'failure to visit' complaint from a duty shift at out OOH Co-op. ( Thanks
for all those who responded with info on the North Staff guidelines etc they
were a big help !)
This complaint arose from a residential home which failed to provide
transport for one of its residents on a Sunday am and as such 'expected' a Dr to
visit because 'IT IS THE PATIENTS RIGHT TO HAVE A VISIT IN THEIR OWN HOME'
(apologies for the shouting !) In the end I relented and put the call through as
a visit mainly because I didn't feel it was fair to penalise the resident for
the homes lack of facilities or staff. Believe it or not two weeks later I get a
formal complaint letter from the HA for 'failure to visit' !
Fortunately our calls are recorded and it was obvious that I had
authorised the visit and that the visit was needed purely on social grounds
rather than medical.
If anyone's interested in a transcript it makes fascinating reading as
the home's manager clearly states that the residents medical condition made no
difference to their ability to travel.
Back to the point - I think residential and nursing home patients are
more difficult to refuse visits too as they are often not in a position to
provide their own transport. I do believe however that all nursing and
residential homes should be in a position to do so.
What do others think ?
Jason English
Spinney Brook Medical Centre
Irthlingborough
Northants
Email to : [log in to unmask]
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