Changing the GP of the person you care for
As a carer, you may wish to change the doctor of the person you care for. Whether you can do this depends on the person’s capacity. If they have the capacity to make this decision, then it is their decision to make. If they are not able to make this decision, you may be able to make the decision.
Generally, it will be the person’s attorney under a health and welfare Lasting power of attorney, or the person’s deputy for personal welfare, who will make this decision and arrange it.
Making a complaint about the GP
There may be times when you or the person with dementia wishes to make a complaint about the GP.
Making a GP complaint in England
Someone making a complaint in England can access support from the Independent NHS Complaints Advocacy service in their area. Their surgery, the local Citizens Advice or the NHS website can provide contact details. If, after following the complaints procedure, you are still not happy with the outcome you can contact the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman.
Making a GP complaint in Wales
In Wales, the local Community Health Council can help with complaints, and NHS Direct Wales can provide you with contact information. If, after following the complaints procedure, you are still not happy with the outcome you can contact the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales.
Making a GP complaint in Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland, you can access support with a complaint through the Patient and Client Council. If, after following the complaints procedure, you are still not happy with the outcome, you can contact the Northern Ireland Ombudsman.
For more information see ‘Other resources'.
