Patient Social Media Guidance

At Linden Hall Surgery we have a duty to maintain patient confidentiality and to safeguard vulnerable patients. You can help us to achieve this by adhering to the code of conduct outlined in this guidance.
 
Patients are expected to always adhere to the following code of conduct:
  1. Linden Hall Surgery requires all users of portable devices to use them in a courteous and considerate manner, respecting their fellow patients. Portable devices are not to be used during consultations, except when agreed with your clinician.
  1. Patients are not permitted to disclose any patient-identifiable information about other patients unless they have the express consent of that patient.
  1. While not encouraged, patients may record their consultation but this should be agreed with your clinician. This recording will solely be for your own purpose.
  1. Patients must not post any material that is inaccurate, fraudulent, harassing, embarrassing, obscene, defamatory or unlawful.
  1. Patients are not permitted to take photographs in any area where other patients are present, nor is it permitted to take photographs of staff.
  1. Patients must not post their medical records on social media platforms such as TikTok or Instagram.
  1. Patients must not post comments on social media that identify any staff.
  1. Patients can leave an official review about the practice by using a ‘Friends & Family Test’, the NHS website or Healthwatch Telford & Wrekin website as this will enable the Practice Manager to respond appropriately. Reviews left on unofficial sites will not be responded to.
  1. Defamatory comments about our team are not to be shared on any social media platform. Legal advice may be sought and the appropriate action taken against any patient who posts defamatory comments.
 
Patient complaints on social media
 
We have a separate Complaints Procedure that patients are to use should they wish to make a complaint. We will only respond to complaints made to the surgery in accordance with practice policy.
 
If a complaint is made on a social media platform, it will not be acknowledged and you will be requested to delete it.

Page last reviewed: 12 February 2026
Page created: 12 February 2026