How can I find a new GP?
This information can be found on Patient UK's find me a... webpage
Most public libraries can also provide lists of doctors in their area.
Can you recommend a specialist in a particular illness?
The College is unable to provide lists of specialists or recommend individuals. Your general practitioner should be able to refer you to one. More information is available Patient UK's find me a... webpage (link above).
How can I find a private hospital or doctor?
We are unable to recommend hospitals or doctors but private healthcare organisations provide information on their own web sites. These organisations include:
BMI Healthcare
BUPA
Capio Healthcare
HCA International
Nuffield Hospitals
Spire Healthcare (formerly BUPA Hospitals)
Where can I find information about self-help and support groups?
Details of UK patient support organisations, self help groups, health and disease information providers are available from Patient UK.
The Department of Health runs or supports a number of telephone helplines.
Are the medicines I've been prescribed safe?
Your doctor or a pharmacist will be able to advise you about the medicines prescribed for you. NHS Direct also provides answers
How can I find out what the letters after a doctor's name mean?
Medilexicon is a useful source of medical abbreviations and definitions.
How do I make a complaint about my hospital treatment?
Information on how to complain about the NHS or Social Services can be found on the Department of Health website.
How do I make a complaint about a specific doctor?
The General Medical Council (GMC) regulates doctors in the UK. They register doctors to practise in the UK and have the powers to either issue a warning to a doctor, remove the doctor from the register, suspend or place conditions on a doctor's registration.
- GMC concerns about doctors, information page
How can I donate my organs in the event of my death?
The Royal College of Physicians of London actively supports organ and tissue donation for clinical transplantation. The rights of patients wishing to donate their organs and tissues, at the time of their death, should be met in a positive and supportive manner. All College members involved with donation will be supported to ensure that the wishes of organ and tissue donors can be granted with efficiency and sympathy. The needs and wishes of bereaved relatives should be met.
To register as an organ and tissue donor please visit www.uktransplant.org.uk or telephone 0845 60 60 400
How can I donate my body to medical science after I die?
The Human Tissue Authority provides information on donating a body for medical education, training or research
Is there someone in the College who can tell me more about the illness I have?
The College is unable to provide help or advice of this nature. Your general practitioner or hospital doctor should be able to answer any questions you have about your illness. Help and advice is also available from NHS Direct, telephone 0845 4647.
You can find out more about an illness or condition from the following organisations:
Other sources of information
If you want information about individual doctors, please contact the GMC
If you want help with a medical condition, please contact NHS Direct
If you want to have your say about healthcare, please contact the Patients Association