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Policy
Refer to MCNZ: Treating yourself and those close to you for guidance.
The Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) recommends that where possible, clinicians should not diagnose or provide treatment to other staff, themselves, or close friends and family. This is due to the risks of unsafe care and/or conflict of interest.
North Avon Medical Centre does not allow the enrolment of staff members, but allows the enrolment of immediate family.
In urgent situations where there is no reasonable alternative, clinicians may provide medical care to staff members or people they have close personal relationships with. This care is focused on immediate reduction of harm, with follow-up care done by the person's usual clinician.
Staff may be charged at the casual patient rate at the doctor's discretion. Immediate family may be charged at the casual patient rate at the doctor's discretion.
Clinicians should avoid engaging in "corridor consultations" or providing informal opinions, which may compromise continuity of care.
If treating staff or people close to you
We mitigate the risks in situations where care is provided to staff or family members: