About this action

Many patients have specific access needs that, when unrecognised, create repeated barriers to care. Proactive flagging ensures these needs are visible and addressed at every interaction, preventing patients from having to repeatedly advocate for accommodations and adjustments. This action is particularly helpful as a starting point for practices working towards more comprehensive Individual Needs Profiles (See ACC_20). Approaches to implementation: - Develop comprehensive categories for access needs, e.g. sensory, mobility, communication, cognitive, cultural - Train reception and clinical staff to sensitively identify and record access needs - Create clear protocols for how flagged needs translate into practice adjustments - Regularly review of flags with patients to ensure they remain accurate and helpful - Link flags to automatic prompts for specific accommodations Key benefits: Transforms access from a repeated struggle to a smooth process for patients with additional needs and demonstrates organisational commitment to inclusion for those with access needs.