Expectations

The Practice Philosophy

Valley Medical Centre is committed to providing high quality GP services in a well organised, modern and friendly setting.

Mission statement

• This practice aims to provide the highest quality health care available under the NHS to all its patients with a well trained and motivated primary health care team.

• The practice recognises the special expertise of many of its members and uses these skills for the benefit of the patients.

• The practice is committed to passing on its special expertise in respect of training and education of other doctors and staff, both locally and within a wider sphere of influence.

The practice values

• Patients' medical conditions will be managed according to the highest standards as defined by the profession.

• Patients will be treated with courtesy and consideration by all our staff.

• Patients will receive appropriate information about their condition and treatment.

• The practice will endeavour to educate patients on health care matters whenever possible.

• Partners, nurses and staff will be encouraged to pursue appropriate further training.

• The practice will undertake professional training.

Patient's values

• NHS treatment should be readily available locally when this is feasible.

• Written protocols for the management of common chronic conditions will be followed when appropriate.

• Patients will be encouraged to see the same Doctor to ensure continuity of care.

The patient's responsibilities

• Patients should attend their appointments at the arranged time. If this is not possible they should inform the surgery as soon as possible.

• We expect that patients will understand that appointments are for one person only. Additional appointments should be made for more than one person.

• Patients are responsible for their own health, and the health of their children, and should co-operate with the practice in endeavouring to keep themselves healthy. We give you professional help and advice - please act on it!

• Requests for help and advice for non-urgent matters should be made during surgery hours only.

• Home visits should only be requested for patients who are seriously ill or housebound. It is important to bear in mind that most medical problems are dealt with more effectively in the clinical setting of a well equipped surgery or hospital.

• Patients should realise that home visits are made at the doctor's discretion.

• Requests for visits and advice at night should only be made for true emergencies.

• Many problems can be solved by advice alone, therefore patients should not always expect a prescription.

• We ask that patients treat the staff and doctors with courtesy and respect. Bear in mind that reception staff have a very difficult job to do, juggling with limited resources and without detailed medical knowledge. They are trying to do their best for you.