WINTER SEASON  

We are pleased to announce that at the time of writing, we have given 894 vaccines to our patient population and anticipate this number to increase with our final clinics. This is wonderful news because as we begin to shift into winter, it’s important for all patients to protect themselves as much as possible from common viruses. For the older generation, such viruses can have a more detrimental effect, so it remains important to support immune systems.

In addition, for ailments such as coughs, colds and sore throats, your local Pharmacy will be able to see you without an appointment and the Pharmacist will be able to advise on the best course of action to take.

RAPID HEALTH

We encourage patients where possible, to use our rapid health software. This allows patients to book an appointment directly into clinic, without the need to telephone the practice. This therefore leaves the phonelines open to those who truly need to call. Rapid Health will only accept the email address on your patient record, so if you are unsure as to which email address we hold, please contact the practice. Rapid Health will ask a series of questions regarding your symptoms, so that appointments can be offered with the best clinician for the problem and at the correct urgency. Rapid Health is accessible via our website homepage. 

BOOKING LINKS

A reminder that if you are sent a booking link for an appointment by the practice, please utilise it as the link will only last for a set period of time. If you do not have a smartphone and cannot click on links in this fashion, please contact the practice so that we can make a note on your records.  

AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS 

November sees several health awareness campaigns taking place which are as follows:

Men’s Health Awareness Month: November sees a particular focus on prostate cancer, testicular cancers and men’s mental health. Also known as “Movember” moustaches are grown throughout the month to show support to the cause.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Aims to highlight the symptoms, prevention, and importance of early diagnosis, especially because it affects both smokers and non-smokers. Main symptoms can include a persistent cough, or a cough that gets worse or doesn't go away, coughing up blood, chest pain or soreness when breathing or coughing, persistent breathlessness or shortness of breath, unexplained tiredness or lack of energy, unexplained weight loss, repeated chest infections, such as pneumonia.  

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month: Focuses on increasing understanding of pancreatic cancer and encouraging early recognition of its symptoms. Key symptoms include jaundice, abdominal or back pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, changes in bowel habits, new on-set diabetes, nausea and vomiting, fatigue and blood clots.