RCGP response to Pulse press release 'Quarter of GPs refuse to
refer for abortion'
Professor Mayur Lakhani, Chair of the Royal College of General
Practitioners (RCGP), says:
“We are concerned to hear of these findings
but would like to reassure women that GPs in the UK are trained to
high professional, ethical and clinical standards. A GP would treat
a women requesting termination of pregnancy with sensitivity. Even
if the doctor had a conscientious objection, another doctor -
usually in the same practice - would see the patient. Such
arrangements may also be set out in the practice leaflet so that
women can choose which doctor to consult.
“Furthermore, a strict code of professional
practice exists and it would be unacceptable if a doctor’s personal
beliefs prevented a patient getting the necessary clinical
treatment.
“Thanks to modern training we do not believe
that this is common place, but doctors must make sure that their
personal moral and religious beliefs do not adversely affect their
relationship with patients.”
Ends
For more information please contact Lorna Fletcher in the RCGP
Press Office 020 7344 3136 / press@rcgp.org.uk