It is probably not the best way to reassure patients, but a health centre brushed aside criticism yesterday after handing out appointment cards sponsored by a local undertaker.

St Margaret’s Health Centre in Auchterarder, Perthshire, was accused of insensitivity after issuing cards to patients that include an advert for the town’s funeral director.

One patient, a 23-year-old mother of one, said: “I thought it was hysterical when I first saw it, but it isn’t funny really. I see the card also contains an ad for the local florist so evidently the doctors hope to provide their patients with all necessary information in the event of failing to cure them.”

Another patient said: “I was handed an appointment card for a routine check and was flabbergasted to see the telephone number of the local undertaker in a blue box on the bottom. It seems quite appallingly insensitive.” The cards list the surgery’s address and telephone number on the front, with space inside for receptionists to fill in appointment times.

As well as an advert for the undertaker, there are notices for a residential home, a florist, a health club, an osteopath, a physiotherapist and a counselling service. A disclaimer from the practice thanks advertisers but points out that their products and services “cannot be guaranteed or endorsed”.

Sheila Back, assistant practice manager, denied that the undertaker advert was inappropriate. She said: “Unfortunately death is something that doctor’s practices have to deal with — it does happen and people need to be aware of where they can go for help.”

David Hancock, financial director of Oldroyd Publishing Group, which prints cards for St Margaret’s, said: “It’s strange that someone would think, ‘Oh crikey — an appointment with death’.”

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