Archive

Put simply, a patient has the right to complete confidentiality. Anything said within the confines of a clinic surgery or treatment room, or even a person’s attendance, is protected by the Data Protection Act. Each new patient at the Via Clinic is asked to sign a “Consent to Treatment” form whereby the patient specifies who may be contacted regarding the patient’s condition. This may include the patient’s GP, relatives, friends or other medical professionals, or none at all. Alternatively, a patient may decide to involve others in their treatment. The parents of a child do not have the right to know what is discussed between the patient and the GP, without the child’s consent.

Yes, normally after an initial consultation with a psychiatrist or psychologist, a recommendation will be made for the most appropriate programme and therapist to be put in place. This will include a recommendation to the relevant specialist(s) who will work with the patient. Should the patient be unhappy with the chosen therapist then arrangements can be made to find an alternative.

Yes, our psychiatrists have admitting rights at some of the best in-patient hospitals in the UK, including the Priory Hospital and Lifeworks in Old Woking. For some patients this is the best option, as it allows them to escape from their everyday environment and focus on their recovery. However, in-patient care is only undertaken when absolutely necessary and is not an automatic recommendation.