Open-plan treatment spaces

Learnings from FtP: The use of open-plan treatment spaces

Concerns about the use of open plan treatment areas have been considered in recent fitness to practice (FtP) cases. For some chiropractic patients, a treatment space that is open plan may not meet their expectations, and could be discomfiting, particularly regarding undressing. There is also a risk that confidential information is overheard by others. This risk is generally higher than when using private treatment rooms.

Registrants are reminded that specific considerations are needed when using this type of treatment space. These will include the use of partitioning, infection control, obtaining consent and ensuring that consent for this type of treatment is maintained, and ensuring privacy and dignity.

The GCC Code emphasises requirements to maintain a patient's confidentiality, dignity, consent and safety at:

A2: respect patients' privacy, dignity and cultural differences and their rights prescribed by law.

B4: strictly maintain patient confidentiality when communicating publicly or privately.

E2: obtain and record consent from a patient prior to starting their care and for the plan of care.

F4: take account of patient communication needs and preferences

H1: keep information about patients confidential and avoid improper disclosure of their personal information.

Registrants will wish to consider the following advice: Patients must be informed in advance they will be treated in an open-plan treatment space and give their consent. Their expectations may not be met if they discover this after they have arrived for their assessment or treatment.

• If possible, an alternative private treatment room should be offered to the patient.
• Consideration must be given in ensuring confidential information about the patient or their treatment or conversations are not overheard by others.
• A facility must be available if the patient wishes to discuss their details or care privately.
• The assessment of infection risks must take account of where care is carried out in an open plan environment.