Can my GP arrange social care for my relative?
Yes, some aspects of social care. But it is not simple. Why? Doctors and other health or social care professionals (e.g. social workers) are not allowed to share information about you with their friends or family unless you give permission.
Without this permission the professional would be breaking confidentiality. This often causes issues in the area of social care of the elderly.
But with frail older patients, some with dementia, it can be important for their children or grandchildren to talk to their doctors or other health professionals – especially if they are unaware of their health issues.
If you would like your relative or friend to be able to speak with your doctor on your behalf – and are happy for your medical information to be shared with them – you should let your GP surgery (or hospital consultant) know.
This can then be documented in your records. This also applies if you are admitted to hospital and are happy for your doctor to discuss your medical care with your loved one. Just ask the team looking after you to document this.
If you are worried about a loved one’s health, it is always best to try to encourage them to access help themselves, as they may be hurt or angry if you speak to their GP without their knowledge. The GP should refuse to talk to you.
The GP will not be able to give you any information about the person, but should listen to your concerns and act if necessary.
Mental Capacity
This is a phrase that means if you are of sound mind (i.e. have ‘mental capacity’), it is your right – in our fair liberal democracy – to make any (healthcare or other) decision about yourself. It does not matter if an outsider (like a close family member) considers it unwise or that it will lead to a worse problem.
It is still your right. This fundamental principle is the basis of the Mental Capacity Act 2005. What this means, in practical terms, is that you may want to talk to their doctor about your loved one, and explain your view. But they do not have to talk to you, or follow it.
Summary
We have described can my GP arrange social care for my relative. We hope it has been helpful.
