It may seem annoying that we check your details each time you come in or over the phone. Such details may include your name, address, phone number or date of birth. Well, there is a very good reason why!
Correct patient identification is vital for your safety and also the maintenance of patient confidentiality, which we take very seriously.
Our industry standards require us to use at least 3 approved identifiers (such as name, DOB or address) when making appointments, giving results or discussing any personal information. We need to make sure we are talking to the correct person, as none of us want our private medical or personal information being given to the wrong person. We also need to be 100% sure we are booking the correct person in, so the correct medical file is accessed by the GP.
Do you ever wonder why our phone number comes up as blocked or private? Again, we have a good reason why! It is all about privacy and protecting your right to visit a GP without your friends or family being aware. Sometimes what you may need to discuss is highly personal and you do not want others to know about it. Having our number blocked or private allows us to contact you without the fear of family or friends recognising our number or your phone flashing "Doctor" and them knowing you have been in contact with us.
So the next time you get asked if your details are still the same (for what feels like the hundredth time), remember we do this to protect your privacy.
If you want more information, our privacy policy is available upon request.
