Zero Tolerance

This practice operates a zero tolerance approach to any form of violent, abusive or intimidating behaviour. Where a patient is violent or abusive to a member of our team or other persons present on our premises or in the place where treatment is provided they shall be removed from our list.

Unacceptable behaviour from a patient that is directed towards any member of the primary healthcare team (whether on or off practice premises) or towards patients or others on practice premises.

For example:

• Physical violence
• Any type of verbal or physical abuse, including threats or gestures
• Any type of discriminatory abuse
• Intentional damage to practice premises
• Sexual and racial harassment
• Stalking
• Inappropriate emotional attachment to the doctor

Incitement to, or condoning, such behaviour is also seen as unacceptable and may involve the patient, a relative, a household member or pets (such as unchained dogs).