At The Welby Group, we understand that some patients may not be able to come into the surgery due to medical reasons. While we aim to provide care in the most appropriate setting, home visits are only available when clinically necessary.
This guidance helps patients understand when a home visit might be offered, how to request one, and what to expect.
In an emergency
The Welby Group of practices is not suitable for emergencies. If you or someone else is experiencing:
- Chest pain
- Severe shortness of breath
- Heavy bleeding
- Collapse, stroke, or unconsciousness
Call 999 immediately.
When a home visit may be offered
You may be eligible for a home visit if:
- You are housebound due to illness or disability (please note if you can attend hospital appointments, you will need to attend the surgery).
- You live in a care home and cannot be brought to the surgery
Each case is reviewed by a clinician who will assess whether a visit is medically necessary.
When a home visit is not normally offered
We will not usually offer home visits for reasons such as:
- Lack of transport
- Bad weather
- Preference to be seen at home
- Feeling too unwell, but you can still travel
We understand these situations may be difficult, but our clinicians must prioritise care based on clinical need.
How to request a home visit
If you believe you need a home visit:
1. Call the practice before 11am wherever possible
2. A trained team member will ask you about your symptoms and confirm your contact details
3. A clinician will then phone you back to assess whether a visit is needed
Depending on your needs, we may:
- Arrange a home visit
- Offer a telephone or video cal
- Book a face-to-face appointment at the surgery
- Advise other services (e.g. A&E or 999 if needed)
Children and home visits
Children will usually be seen at the surgery. If there’s a serious concern, a clinician will assess whether a home visit is needed.
Safety and risk
Every home visit is risk-assessed to protect both patients and staff. In some cases, we may:
- Visit in pairs
- Use a chaperone
- Recommend an alternative care plan if a visit is not safe
COVID-19 and Infection control
During outbreaks (like COVID-19), home visits are only made when:
- Phone or video appointments are not suitable
- A physical exam is essential and the patient cannot attend the surgery
We aim to minimise in-person contact and will often liaise with wider community teams.
Out of area patients
Patients registered under the Out of Area scheme are not eligible for home visits. You should access services closer to home.
Transparency and fairness
We will:
- Publicise our home visiting criteria in surgery and online
- Always offer alternative care options if a home visit is not appropriate
- Ensure fair allocation of clinical resources to all our patients
Working together
By understanding when home visits are appropriate, we can ensure those most in need are seen safely and effectively.
If you’re unsure whether you or a loved one qualifies for a home visit, please call us for advice.
Contact us:
The Welby Practice, Bottesford, Harlaxton and Waltham: 01949 842341
Swingbridge surgery, Grantham: 01476 571166
New Coningsby Surgery, Coningsby: 01526 344544
Cleveland Surgery, Gainsborough: 01427 613158