Home visits are at the discretion of the GP, who will determine if the visit is clinically necessary.
Visits are reserved for patients who are genuinely housebound, including those in nursing and residential homes, and terminally ill patients.
A healthcare professional from NCMG may conduct a home visit if they believe the patient’s condition either:
- Prevents them from travelling to the surgery, or
- May deteriorate as a result of travelling to the surgery
Home visits will not be authorised because of:
- A lack of transport
- The patient’s financial situation
- Childcare issues
- Poor weather conditions
- Any other situation deemed inappropriate by the clinician
NCMG will also consider whether alternative ways of assessing the patient are appropriate such as either a video or telephone call or, if in a care home, the use of a virtual ward.
Following confirmation that a home visit is required, the delegating GP will ensure the attending clinician has the necessary skills, knowledge, competence and training to deliver the home visit whilst offering the appropriate level of supervision and/or support.
Thank you for taking the time to read this notice.