Chaperone Policy
The Practice is committed to providing a safe, comfortable environment where patients and staff can be confident that best practice is being followed at all times and the safety of everyone is of paramount importance. The applies to ALL patients regardless of religion, ethnicity, cultural background, language, or whether they have any learning disability or mental health problem. All patients are entitled to have a chaperone present for any consultation, examination or procedure where they feel one is required. This chaperone will normally be a clinical member of staff. On occasions you may prefer an informal chaperone to be present i.e. family friend or relative (provided this is acceptable to the Clinician). Wherever possible please make this request at the time of booking an appointment so that arrangements can be made and your appointment is not delayed. Your healthcare professional may also require a chaperone to be present for certain consultations in accordance with our Chaperone Policy. If you would like to see our Chaperone Policy or have any questions, please contact the Team Leader at your surgery.
PREVENTATIVE CARE AND DISEASE MANAGEMENT
An increasing number of specialist activities are available at our surgery and many are listed below. If you require an appointment please telephone or enquire at Reception. The aim is to prevent and manage disease, rather than treat illnesses.
Family Planning services are provided by the Practice with care shared between doctors and Practice Nurses.
Screening for Chlamydia is available for all young people aged 15 to 24 years old. Please make an appointment with the Practice Nurse.
Minor Operations A doctor performs minor operations, with a Health Care Assistant in attendance. A doctor must see the patient prior to referral.
Ante-natal Clinics are run by the doctors and midwives.
Child Development is assessed by a doctor and health visitor at specific intervals.
NHS Health Checks This check is part of a national scheme to help prevent the onset of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease ands stroke. Everyone between the ages of 40 and 74 who has not been diagnosed with the conditions mentioned will be invited for a check once every 5 years. If you are outside the age range and are concerned about your health, you should contact your GP.
Flu and Pneumovax Clinics
In accordance with the Department of Health Guidelines we recommend an annual influenza vaccination and a ‘once only’ pneumovax vaccination for patients over 65, or those with chronic diseases such as diabetes, chronic heart, lung or kidney disease. The vaccination is available in the autumn and if you fall into the categories at risk, you will be invited to attend a special clinic. If eligible, you may also be able to receive a shingles vaccination at these clinics.
Chronic Disease Management
All patients with eligible chronic diseases are recalled annually in the month of their birth. For most conditions, this will require two appointments - one with a Healthcare Assistant and second with a Nurse skilled in chronic disease management. These are important reviews that enable us to best manage your care and medication, so please do respond should you receive a letter inviting you to book a review.