GP practice warns patients of ‘incidents involving abusive behaviour’ in car park 

A GP practice has warned abusive patients they will be removed from the practice list following ‘a number of incidents involving abusive behaviour’. 

East Calder Medical Practice in Livingston, Scotland, said on social media its staff had been subject to abuse in the practice car park. 

The post suggested this was linked to ‘ongoing misuse of both staff and patient parking areas’ by patients. 

In a Facebook post addressed to patients, the practice said: ‘We would like to make all patients aware that we have recently experienced a number of incidents involving abusive behaviour towards our staff in the front car park.’ 

‘The front car park is for staff use only. To maximise the limited space available, staff members often need to block each other’s vehicles. 

‘Patients are encouraged to use the rear car park, which is designated for patient use. Please be aware that this car park is for unwell or infirm patients visiting the practice. Be considerate regarding this. 

‘Disabled parking spaces must only be used by Blue Badge holders and patients who genuinely require them. 

‘We are aware of ongoing misuse of both staff and patient parking areas, including vehicles being left for extended periods for park and ride purposes or even while travelling on holidays. These behaviours are monitored and will be addressed.’ 

The practice also reminded patients of the NHS zero-tolerance policy regarding abusive and aggressive behaviour towards staff, warning patients such behaviour ‘will result in patients being removed from the practice list’. 

‘Our staff are here to support you. We kindly ask for your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe, respectful, and fair environment for everyone’, the practice added. 

Pulse has reported extensively on the ‘epidemic’ of abusive and violent behaviour towards GP practice staff.

A Devon GP recently revealed that patients had sent abusive messages to her practice via the Accurx online consultation tool.

And at the UK LMC conference last month, GP leaders backed a motion calling on UK Governments to expand schemes for violent patients to include patients who are persistently abusive.

Pulse has contacted East Calder Medical Practice to comment.