Early Clinical Experience - General Practice Visits

As future doctors you are expected to behave appropriately on clinical visits and when dealing with patients. The following notes are to help you get started on the right foot!

1. Dress smartly - jeans and tee-shirts are not considered acceptable. The dress code in the Student Handbook must be followed. ID badges must be worn.

2. Be punctual - but remember that clinical staff may be delayed due to their other commitments.

3. Be courteous to patients and staff at all times.

4. Always ask for a patient’s permission to interview or examine them, making sure they know that you are a student doctor.

5. Treat all patient information as confidential - it is not to be discussed outside appropriate clinical settings. Written notes should exclude identifying information (e.g. name, address).

6. If you are delayed or unable to attend ring the surgery as soon as possible. They may have made special arrangements for your visit.

7. Remember to take the printed version of this guide and a stethoscope with you to each visit.