Policy on Declining Shared Care with Private Providers

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline the criteria and procedures for declining shared care arrangements with private providers, ensuring the integrity of our care services and maintaining high standards of patient safety and quality.

Scope

This policy applies to all staff members involved in patient care and decision-making regarding partnerships with private healthcare providers.

Definitions

• Shared Care: Collaborative arrangements between public healthcare providers and private providers to deliver patient care.
• Private Providers: Any healthcare entity or individual that operates for profit and is not part of the public healthcare system.

Policy Statement

The Tweed and Neidpath Practices do  not engage in shared care arrangements with private providers. This decision is based on the commitment to uphold our values of equity, access, and quality care for all patients. We believe that collaboration with private providers may lead to inconsistencies in care delivery, potential conflicts of interest, and increased therapeutic risk.

Rationale

The decision to decline shared care with private providers is based on the following considerations:

• Quality of Care: Maintaining a consistent standard of care that aligns with our organizational protocols and values.
• Patient Safety: Minimizing risks associated with fragmented care and ensuring comprehensive patient monitoring and follow-up.
• Equity in Healthcare: Ensuring all patients have equal access to care without the influence of private profit motives.
• Compliance and Regulation: Adhering to relevant healthcare regulations and maintaining a clear framework for accountability.

Procedures

• Notification: Staff must inform any private providers seeking shared care arrangements that the Neidpath and Tweed Practices does not participate in such agreements.
• Referral Protocols: If patients require services outside our organization, staff should refer them to appropriate public healthcare resources. The patient receives a letter outlining  the responsibilities and limitations of private referrals.                                                                       

Exceptions

This policy may be reviewed in cases where:

• There is a significant change in healthcare regulations.
• A comprehensive review indicates a potential benefit to patient care and safety.

Any proposed exceptions must be approved by both Tweed and Neidpath partners as is appropriate.

Review and Revision

This policy will be reviewed annually or as necessary to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

Contact Information

For questions regarding this policy, please contact Mrs Fiona Lawson, practice manager