We always try to give you the best services possible but there may be times when you feel this has not happened. This procedure explains what to do if you have a complaint about the services we provide for you at The Deepings Practice.
If you have any complaint or concern about any service that you have received from the doctors or staff working for The Deepings Practice at either Market Deeping or Glinton, you are entitled to ask for an explanation.
We operate an informal, in-house complaints procedure to deal with your complaints and comments. This procedure does not deal with matters of legal liability or compensation. In some cases, the in-house procedure is not an appropriate form of investigation, in which case you will be referred to the appropriate authority. Your complaint should be addressed to our Deputy Practice Manager, Claire Clark, who will ensure that it is investigated thoroughly, fairly and as speedily as possible although, in some cases, it may take longer if we have to make further enquiries. The contact email address is feedback.
We aim to acknowledge your complaint within three working days and complete our investigations within 6 months. Claire will ensure that your complaint is investigated by the appropriate person within the Practice. It is likely that, as a first step, the investigator will contact you directly to ensure that he or she fully understands your complaint. The investigator will then interview appropriate members of the Practice staff and may inspect relevant documents.
Please note that the Practice must ensure strict adherence to the rule of medical confidentiality. We cannot provide confidential information without appropriate written authority if you are not the patient in question. Please note there are restrictions on the information that can be released to a third party concerning deceased patients. These restrictions will be explained to you by Claire.
At the conclusion of the investigation, your complaint will be discussed with you in detail. If you are still not happy with the outcome and are not satisfied that we have dealt with the matter thoroughly, we will direct you to the appropriate authorities who will be able to help you.
The procedure does not affect your right to make a formal complaint to NHS England, P O Box 16738, Redditch, B97 9PT email: england.
PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) leaflets are available in each surgery. Contact details for Lincolnshire PALS is: 0300 123 9553 email: LHNT.
Alternatively you may wish to contact the NHS Complaints Advocacy Service: POhWER Lincolnshire, tel: 0300 4562370, email: pohwer
Any contact with the Ombudsman must be made within 12 months of completion of correspondence with the Practice.