Declining Surgery

Policy

If a patient is declined a procedure, GPDocs Model Practice ensures the patient is aware of other options and has appropriate support if needed.

Declining a service

If a patient is declined a service:

1. Explain to the patient why they are being declined a service.

   If declining a procedure because it has not been approved by the patient's health insurer, discuss payment options.

2. Address the patient's immediate needs.

   This may include:

   • informing the patient of other options
   • referring the patient
   • contacting family/whānau or others as appropriate
   • helping the patient re-book the procedure.
3. Record the decline (including reasons) and any referrals in Medtech.

If a patient is declined a procedure due to inadequate staffing or problems with equipment, see Managing and Reporting Incidents.