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"People with complex needs."

About: Hillfoot Surgery

I have had a very positive experiences at this GP practice, and the care they provide is very good. However, as someone who has a relative with complex needs, I've noticed that there are significant barriers in place when it comes to making inquiries, especially for individuals with disabilities like autism, hearing impairments, or speech difficulties. Of course, using the patches GP system for basic inquiries would be inappropriate for basic inquiries.

For many of these individuals, engaging in verbal communication can be challenging, which raises an important question: how can they effectively navigate the process of contacting the practice for basic inquiries? In today's world, where inclusivity should be a priority, it’s essential for healthcare providers to offer multiple avenues for communication that cater to a wide range of needs.

I believe that this practice could greatly benefit from exploring options such as a dedicated email system for such people, Implementing such a feature would not only facilitate easier communication for individuals with disabilities but also enhance the overall patient experience for all.

Furthermore, staff training on how to assist patients with diverse needs could be invaluable in ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and supported. Making these adjustments would demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and help bridge the gap for those who struggle with traditional methods of communication.

I hope Hillfoot can consider these suggestions and take steps toward creating a more accessible environment for all patients, enabling individuals with complex needs to connect with the pratice as seamlessly as those without such challenges.

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Responses

Response from Hillfoot Surgery 10 months ago
Hillfoot Surgery
Submitted on 24/09/2024 at 14:10
Published on nhs.uk at 14:10


Thank you for being so complementary about the care you have received at Hillfoot. We do strive to deliver the best care we can.

I am sorry that you felt you had to raise the issue of reasonable adjustments, and that you feel at times that these are not considered.

As a practice we do take this issue very seriously, and s part of the process of ensuring patients needs are met and adjustments taken into account we are working with our neigbouring practices to address this. for the past 18 months we have had a reasonable adjustments coordinator working across practices, speaking to patients and adding notes to records. Our staff are undertaking reasonable adjustment training this week in order that they can take this work forward.

Whilst we try, we do not always get it right, so for that I would like to apologise on behalf of the practice. Thank you for your suggestions - I have added to the next clinical meeting agenda so that we can discuss the points you raised.

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