Frequently asked questions about health
Can I change my GP?
Anyone can change their GP without giving a reason. To change your GP you should go to another practice and tell them that you wish to register under their care.
You do not have to give a reason for wanting to change your GP, but the new practice does have the right to refuse your request:
if you live outside their practice area, or
if they are not accepting new patients at that time.
For more information on changing your GP please visit the NHS Direct website.
How do I find out what's wrong?
If you are worried about how your child is developing, about their physical health or their mental wellbeing, it is usually best to start by talking to your GP or your health visitor. Your GP can refer you on to specialist services that can investigate your child's difficulties. This might be the Seaside View Child Development Centre, CAMHS ( the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service), the Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital or occasionally somewhere further away such as Chailey Heritage or Guy's Hospital. Bear in mind that some children with special needs never get a clear diagnosis. If your child's difficulties are mostly with learning you should talk to their school or pre-school about whether they should see an Educational Psychologist.
How do I get a second opinion?
There is no legal right to a second opinion but you can request one. Ask your GP for another referral. If you are referred for a second opinion, this will not have a high priority and there may be quite a wait. If you want the second opinion because you are uncertain about the information you have been given or the treatment suggested, it may make sense to ask your GP or consultant to discuss this with you further. They may be able to suggest alternatives or explain things more clearly. If you feel your GP or consultant is not helpful, you can approach PALS for advice about how to take this forward.
