Managing your health is a partnership between you and your local care providers. In Scotland, the NHS is designed to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs, but the system works best when we work together. This guide explains how to access our services effectively and highlights the various pathways available to ensure you receive the right care from the most appropriate professional.
Accessing Care at the Surgery
To receive medical care, you must be registered with the practice. Consultations are by appointment; if you arrive without a scheduled time, we may not be able to see you immediately. Our reception team may suggest you see a different healthcare professional, such as a Practice Nurse or a Primary Care Clinical Pharmacist, who are often the most suitable experts for specific conditions.
- Gender Preference: If you prefer to see a male or female clinician, please let us know when booking. We will do our best to accommodate this, though it depends on staff availability.
- Referrals: If your GP determines you need specialist care, they will arrange a referral. You generally cannot see an NHS specialist without being referred by your GP.
- Interpreting Services: We can arrange for an interpreter (face-to-face or via telephone) if required. Please notify us when booking your appointment so this can be organised in advance.
- Prescriptions: If you are prescribed medication, you will receive a prescription. In Scotland, prescriptions are free of charge.
Results and Tests
If a clinician arranges tests, such as blood samples or X-rays, they will explain how you will receive your results. Please wait for the advised time frame before contacting us, as results must be processed and reviewed. You can often find general information on common tests via NHS Inform.
Help Us to Help You
Our staff work hard to support all patients in a high-pressure environment. We ask that you help us keep the surgery running smoothly by following these steps:
- Cancel if You Can’t Attend: If you cannot make your appointment, please let us know immediately so we can offer the slot to another patient. Under the Patient Rights (Scotland) Act 2011, patients have a right to care that is efficient and effective; cancelling helps us uphold this for everyone.
- One Patient, One Appointment: If multiple family members need to be seen, please book a separate appointment for each person to ensure everyone gets the time they need.
- Complex Issues: If you have a complex problem, please inform the receptionist so they can advise on the most suitable appointment format.
- Update Your Details: Please notify us immediately if you change your address, phone number, or email.
- Mutual Respect: We follow a zero-tolerance policy regarding aggression or abuse toward our staff. Everyone has the right to work and receive care in a safe environment.
Choosing the Right Service
Your GP is not always the first point of contact for every ailment. Using the correct service helps you get treated faster:
- Pharmacy First: For minor illnesses like sore throats, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or skin conditions, use the NHS Pharmacy First Scotland service.
- Eye Problems: For any eye issues, including pain or redness, you should contact a community optician first.
- Dental Issues: GPs cannot treat dental problems. Please contact your dentist or find a local dental practice.
- Muscle or Joint Pain: You can often self-refer to Physiotherapy services.
- Minor Injuries: For sprains, cuts, or suspected small fractures, visit a Minor Injuries Unit (please contact NHS 24 first before attending).
- When We Are Closed: If you become unwell when the surgery is shut and cannot wait until we reopen, call 111 to access NHS 24.
In an emergency, always dial 999.