A last word: Removing patients from the practice list

Although GPs do have a right to remove patients from their lists, they cannot do so arbitrarily

A small but significant number of complaints are referred for independent review every year purely because the practice has removed a patient from their lists after they make a complaint.

In many of these cases the complaint is upheld because the practice concerned has not adhered to its obligation for removal from the list, as set out in the GP contract. Although GPs do have a right to remove patients from their lists, they cannot do so arbitrarily.

GMC guidance is very clear on this matter (see "GMC guidance" below). Moreover, current legislation governing NHS complaints in England, The Local Authority Social Services and National Health Service Complaints (England) Regulations 2009, The Health Act 2009 and the Health and Social Care Act 2008 specifically prohibit NHS bodies from discriminating against patients because they have complained.

GMC guidance

38. In rare circumstances, the trust between you and a patient may break down, and you may find it necessary to end the professional relationship. For example, this may occur if a patient has been violent to you or a colleague, has stolen from the premises, or has persistently acted inconsiderately or unreasonably. You should not end a relationship with a patient solely because of a complaint the patient has made about you or your team, or because of the resource implications of the patient’s care or treatment.

39. Before you end a professional relationship with a patient, you must be satisfied that your decision is fair and does not contravene the guidance in paragraph 7. You must be prepared to justify your decision. You should inform the patient of your decision and your reasons for ending the professional relationship, wherever practical in writing.

40. You must take steps to ensure that arrangements are made promptly for the continuing care of the patient, and you must pass on the patient’s records without delay.

(GMC, Good Medical Practice, 2006)