FEATURE
Accepting New Patients – 5 Things to Know About Proposed Policy Draft
The College ’ s Accepting New Patients policy is currently under review in accordance with the College ’ s regular policy review cycle . The policy sets out physicians ’ professional and legal obligations when accepting new patients .
A new draft policy has been developed based on research undertaken , a broad preliminary consultation on the current policy , and a public opinion poll conducted using a representative sample of Ontarians .
We ’ ve just launched a consultation on the draft policy and want to get your feedback . Visit our website at www . cpso . on . ca to read the full draft and provide your comments .
Below are five highlights of the new draft : photo : istockphoto . com
1
Reminds physicians that when making decisions about accepting new patients into practice they must do so in a manner that is fair , transparent , and respectful of the rights , autonomy , dignity and diversity of all prospective patients .
2
States explicitly that it is inappropriate for physicians to use introductory tools like ‘ meet and greet appointments ’ and medical questionnaires to vet prospective patients and determine whether to accept those patients into their practice . Doing so may be considered discrimination against prospective patients under Ontario law .
3
Maintains the expectation contained in the current policy that physicians follow the firstcome , first-served approach when accepting new patients . In doing so , physicians help to ensure that they are fulfilling their legal obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code , which entitles every Ontario resident to health services free from discrimination .
4
Provides two limited circumstances where physicians are justified in deviating from the first-come , first-served approach when accepting new patients . These exceptions include : when caring for higher need and complex patients , and existing patients ’ family members . The draft policy reminds physicians that any decision to prioritize a patient ’ s access to care must be made in good faith .
5
Clarifies that the policy applies to all physicians , and those acting on their behalf , regardless of practice area or speciality .
Issue 4 , 2016 Dialogue 9