Other Information

Primary Care Trust

Hindley Health Centre is included in the area governed by the Ashton, Leigh and Wigan PCT. The Trust is able to advise on other medical services in this area and can be contacted at:

Wigan Life Centre,
College Avenue,
Wigan
WN1 1NJ
Tel 01942 482711
www.alwpct.nhs.uk

Confidentiality

All patient notes are treated with the strictest confidentiality and we comply with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Data Protection

We ask you for personal information so that you can receive appropriate care and treatment. This information is recorded on computer and we are registered under the Data Protection Act. The practice will ensure that patient confidentiality is maintained at all times by all members of the practice team. However, for the effective functioning of a multi-disciplinary team it is sometimes necessary that medical information about you is shared between members of the practice team.

Freedom Of Information – Publication Scheme

Any information requested under the FOI Act is referred to the Caldicott Officer who will ensure that it is an appropriate request under the Act. All such requests should be submitted in writing and they will be processed accordingly.

Complaints Procedure

We operate a practice complaints procedure as part of the NHS system for dealing with complaints. Our system meets national criteria and our practice manager will give you further information. Our practice complaints leaflet gives details of the procedure and is available from reception. Our aim is to give the highest possible standard of service and we try to deal swiftly with any problems that may occur.

HELP US TO HELP YOU!

Mutual Respect

We try to be helpful and to provide a caring service whilst accepting that things are not always ideal and people can have reasons to complain. In that event we will listen but are no longer prepared to tolerate abuse. Any patient who is repeatedly rude or aggressive may be asked to register elsewhere. Patients who are violent or aggressive may be removed from the practice list in line with NHS guidelines. This would result in police involvement and would mean all future medical care would be carried out at a designated facility such as a secure area of the hospital or police station.

Rights And Responsibilities Of Patients

We expect all our patients to attend promptly for their appointments. If the appointment is no longer required the surgery should be contacted and the appointment cancelled with adequate notice so it can be offered to another patient.