Fair Use Policy 

As part of our commitment to delivering high-quaility care to all patients, Woodside Medical Practice has introduced a Fair Use Policy. This policy is designed to ensure our services are used appropriately and fairly, enabling equal access for everyone in our community. 

We recognise that patients have different health needs, and some individuals may require more frequent support. However, to maintain the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of our services, it is important that we address instances where service use becomes excessive or inappropriate. 

We routinely review the frequency and type of patient contact, including online consultations, telephone appointments, and face-to-face visits. Examples of inapproproiate or excessive use may include (but are not limited to): 

• Submitting repeated online consultations for the same issue without clinical need 
• Boooking multiple appointments unnecessarily or failing to attend booked appointments
• using GP appointments for non-medical or administrative queries 
• Requesting urgent appointments for non-urgent concerns 
• Displaying abusive or disrespectful behaviour towards staff 

Such behaviours place unnecessary pressure on our services and may limit access for other patients who require medical attention. 

Where a pattern of inappropriate or excessive use is identified, the practice will take a staged approach:

Initial Warning - We may contact you to discuss your use of services and offer guidance or support where appropriate 

Monitoring Period - Your use of services may be monitored over an agreed period 

Final Warning - Continued misuse may result in a formal written warning, outlining the potential for removal from the practice list 

Removal from Patient List - In cases of persistent or serious misuse, and in line with NHS regulations, the practice reserves the right to remove a patient from its list following due process 

Our intention is not to discourage patients from seeking help when needed, but to ensure that our services remain fair, safe, and accessible for all. If you have ongoing heealth concerns or require additional support, we encourage you to speak with a GP, who can help coordinate appropriate care. 

This policy supports safe, respectful, and equitable use of NHS resources. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.