More and more patients in Northern Ireland are being struck off GP registers without warning, a new report revealed today.
The North's Ombudsman, Mr Tom Frawley, is so concerned by the trend he has urged the authorities to bring in tougher sanctions.
Mr Frawley said: "In something as personal and important to the patient as the relationship with their doctor, for that to happen without the opportunity to at least explain the background circumstances is arbitrary and not in any way consistent with natural justice."
The Ombudsman, who deals with grievances against government departments and public bodies, received a total of 278 complaints last year - a near 7 per cent rise.
One of the most worrying developments was a growing number of patients no longer welcomed at health practices.
PA
