Access Inequalities
Access for migrants, asylum seekers and refugees
CQC guidance on what they inspect in respect of ‘people whose circumstances may make them vulnerable’ which may include asylum seekers, refugees and other vulnerable migrants. Includes:
- What NHS services are free to everyone
- Groups of people who are exempt from all overseas visitor charges
- Responsibilities of GP practices in ensuring these groups can access treatment according to their rights
Safe Surgeries, Doctors of the World.
GP practices can sign up to be a Safe Surgery, which involves taking steps to remove barriers faced by many migrants in access to healthcare. This website includes:
- Safe Surgeries Toolkit
- Resources and training
- Translated health information: basic information on rights to healthcare in many languages
Access for homeless people
CQC Information for Providers: GP mythbuster 29: Looking after homeless patients in General Practice, CQC, 2022.
CQC guidance on what they inspect in respect of ‘people whose circumstances may make them vulnerable’ which includes people who are homeless. Includes:
- Inequalities faced by homeless people in access to healthcare
- Expected standards of care
- Examples of good practice
- Duty to refer
- Useful resources for GP practices on homelessness and healthcare
Homelessness and General Practice, Pathway (healthcare for homeless people charity).
- Details of the NHS England Registration Framework relevant to people who are homeless
- Free CPD resources:
- Homeless Health Elearning from the Healthy London Partnership
- Homelessness Guidance and Tips for GP Receptionists
- Go to Pathway homepage to access further support and resources on homelessness and healthcare