Information for Patients

Information for SAS Patients

If you are assigned to a Special Allocation Service, you should not contact or visit your local practice. As a result of your removal, you will be added to the patient list at an alternative, specific GP practice.

Please do not go to another local practice asking to sign on to their list as they will not be able to help you.

What is a Special Allocation Scheme?

Special Allocation Schemes were created to ensure that patients who have been immediately removed from a practice patient list can continue to access healthcare services at an alternative, specific GP practice.

Why has my GP practice been allowed to immediately remove me from their list of patients?

It is important that practices can maintain a safe environment for their patients and all staff working in the practice. NHS Regulations allow a GP practice to immediately remove a patient from their list following any incident where a GP or member of practice staff has feared for their safety or wellbeing, resulting in the incident being reported to the police.

What can I do if I disagree with the decision to be placed on the Special Allocation Scheme?

The decision to remove you from the patient list and place you on a Special Allocation Scheme was made in accordance with NHS regulations. Your registration on the scheme will be reviewed every 12 months.

Until then, you must remain with the specific GP practice on the scheme unless you believe you have been registered by mistake, or the incident did not occur.

You may appeal the decision within 28 days of being notified, following the process set out in the NHSE PGM, and send it to the Special Allocation Liaison Team at syicb-sheffield.specialallocationscheme@nhs.net

The practice you are asking me to attend is further away than the GP practice I used to go to. How do I get there and will you pay my travel costs?

Special Allocation Schemes often cover a wide geographical area so you may have to travel further than usual to attend an appointment. You are responsible for making your own travel arrangements and paying any fares / costs to get to your appointment.

I am unhappy about the decision to remove me from my existing practice, can I make a complaint?

If you dispute the incident that resulted in your removal from the patient list at your previous GP practice, or you believe that the appeal process has not been followed, you can make a complaint. If you decide to complain it is important to clearly explain why you believe you should have not been removed from the practice patient list or why you think the correct process has not been followed.

For more information visit: Contact us :: South Yorkshire I.C.B

Published on 20th Jan 2025