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Patient News

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98% would recommend us in our February 2024 Friends and Family Feedback

"All contact with surgery in recent months has been excellent. Either through econsult, via telephone appointment request or other queries- all responses have been promptly dealt with. Very happy with the service surgery provides"

Did you know you can submit non-urgent requests via our website or the NHS app? 

Contact us about your request (accurx.com)

 

"All contact with surgery in recent months has been excellent. Either through econsult, via telephone appointment request or other queries- all responses have been promptly dealt with. Very happy with the service surgery provides"

Did you know you can submit non-urgent requests via our website or the NHS app? 

Contact us about your request (accurx.com)

 

11 Mar, 2024
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93% would recommend us in our January 2024 Friends and Family Feedback

"Got the appointment quickly, which is the only thing anyone wants went in discomfort. The GP was really friendly, I didn’t feel rushed, answered my questions, and was just really professional!"

We had lots of lovely feedback, a few who love our new checking-in screen, and we also had a few comments which we will learn from.

Thank you to all of you who complete the feedback forms.

"Got the appointment quickly, which is the only thing anyone wants went in discomfort. The GP was really friendly, I didn’t feel rushed, answered my questions, and was just really professional!"

We had lots of lovely feedback, a few who love our new checking-in screen, and we also had a few comments which we will learn from.

Thank you to all of you who complete the feedback forms.

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Coventry & Warwickshire Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Walk 2023

There is no charge for attending but we ask that you purchase a free ticket from here if you are planning to come along so we have an idea of numbers for the walk itself.

Event and family fun day runs from 11:00am - 4:00pm with the awareness walk itself taking place at 1:00pm

On: Sun 11 Jun 2023 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Where: Ryton Pools Country Park, Ryton Road, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, CV8 3BH.  

To see the event on facebook please click here.

Mail: hello@byyoursideperinatal.co.uk

Facebook: @ByYourSidePerinatal

Twitter: @byyoursideforum

Please see the entire leaflet here.

There is no charge for attending but we ask that you purchase a free ticket from here if you are planning to come along so we have an idea of numbers for the walk itself.

Event and family fun day runs from 11:00am - 4:00pm with the awareness walk itself taking place at 1:00pm

On: Sun 11 Jun 2023 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Where: Ryton Pools Country Park, Ryton Road, Ryton-on-Dunsmore, CV8 3BH.  

To see the event on facebook please click here.

Mail: hello@byyoursideperinatal.co.uk

Facebook: @ByYourSidePerinatal

Twitter: @byyoursideforum

Please see the entire leaflet here.

5 Jun, 2023
18 Aug, 2023
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NHS App: A More Secure and Reliable Way to Receive Messages from Your Surgery

Please click the link below to download the NHS App.

NHS App | www.nhs.uk

Please click the link below to download the NHS App.

NHS App | www.nhs.uk

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Practice & Pharmacy Opening Times | Easter Bank Holiday 2023

Southam Surgery wish you all a Happy Easter!  

We are closed for the bank holiday weekend form Thursday 6th April at 6:30 PM and will re-open on Tuesday 11th April at 8:30 AM

Service will still be provided by calling 111 or  999 in the case of a medical emergency.  

Asda Pharmacy is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Friday 7th April and  Monday 10th April 2022. They are closed on Sunday. 

You can find them at: Asda store, Chesterton Drive, Leamington Spa, CV31 1YD | 01926 459010

Southam Surgery wish you all a Happy Easter!  

We are closed for the bank holiday weekend form Thursday 6th April at 6:30 PM and will re-open on Tuesday 11th April at 8:30 AM

Service will still be provided by calling 111 or  999 in the case of a medical emergency.  

Asda Pharmacy is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Friday 7th April and  Monday 10th April 2022. They are closed on Sunday. 

You can find them at: Asda store, Chesterton Drive, Leamington Spa, CV31 1YD | 01926 459010

6 Apr, 2023
Safer Sleep for Babies

There was a strong link between sudden, unexpected infant deaths and sleeping arrangements. Where it was known, 98% (n=124/127) of unexplained deaths occurred when the infant was thought to be asleep, and of those, 52% (n=64/124) of deaths occurred while the sleeping surface was shared with an adult or older sibling. 

Of the 64 deaths where the sleeping surface was shared, for 60% this sharing was unplanned and at least 92% were in hazardous circumstances e.g., co-sleeping with an adult who had consumed alcohol or on a sofa. 

Of the 124 deaths that occurred during apparent sleep, at least 75% identified one or more of the following risk factors related to the sleeping arrangements: put down prone (face down) or side; hazardous co-sleeping; inappropriate sleeping surface when sleeping alone; inappropriate items in the bed.

Safer Sleep Winter Resource

There was a strong link between sudden, unexpected infant deaths and sleeping arrangements. Where it was known, 98% (n=124/127) of unexplained deaths occurred when the infant was thought to be asleep, and of those, 52% (n=64/124) of deaths occurred while the sleeping surface was shared with an adult or older sibling. 

Of the 64 deaths where the sleeping surface was shared, for 60% this sharing was unplanned and at least 92% were in hazardous circumstances e.g., co-sleeping with an adult who had consumed alcohol or on a sofa. 

Of the 124 deaths that occurred during apparent sleep, at least 75% identified one or more of the following risk factors related to the sleeping arrangements: put down prone (face down) or side; hazardous co-sleeping; inappropriate sleeping surface when sleeping alone; inappropriate items in the bed.

Safer Sleep Winter Resource

New Local Data Sharing Agreement

We will soon be joining hospitals, social care providers and GP practices in the area in implementing the Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Record (ICR). This is a way of bringing together all your separate records from the different organisations involved in your health and social care. It will let health and social care professionals see relevant information about the care and treatment you’ve had across all services. 

For more information, please: 

If you do not want your information to be shared in this way, please email: 

collaborative.care.record@nhs.net or call 0345 6461163

Please note, the ICR is different to anything you might have said no to before. So, if you don’t want your records to be available to view through the ICR, you’ll need to object. 
 

We will soon be joining hospitals, social care providers and GP practices in the area in implementing the Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Record (ICR). This is a way of bringing together all your separate records from the different organisations involved in your health and social care. It will let health and social care professionals see relevant information about the care and treatment you’ve had across all services. 

For more information, please: 

If you do not want your information to be shared in this way, please email: 

collaborative.care.record@nhs.net or call 0345 6461163

Please note, the ICR is different to anything you might have said no to before. So, if you don’t want your records to be available to view through the ICR, you’ll need to object. 
 

Diabetic Retinal Screening

The NHS provides FREE eye screening for people with diabetes aged over 12 years old.

Have you attended your diabetic eye screening appointment?

Eye screening is an important part of your diabetes care. Retinopathy often has no symptoms until the disease is advanced. If left undetected, it can lead to blindness. 

To book an appointment, call us on 0333 456 7670

For more information click here.

The NHS provides FREE eye screening for people with diabetes aged over 12 years old.

Have you attended your diabetic eye screening appointment?

Eye screening is an important part of your diabetes care. Retinopathy often has no symptoms until the disease is advanced. If left undetected, it can lead to blindness. 

To book an appointment, call us on 0333 456 7670

For more information click here.

Hope Programme for Long Covid

Free self-management course, to help you cope with fatigue, anxiety and brain fog. 

Please view this leaflet for more information. 

Free self-management course, to help you cope with fatigue, anxiety and brain fog. 

Please view this leaflet for more information. 

South Warwickshire Members Newsletter

Please view the newsletter here.


 

Please view the newsletter here.


 

Covid -19 Vaccine - Spring Dose

In February, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advised a spring dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for:

  • adults aged 75 years and over
  • residents in care homes for older adults
  • individuals aged 12 years and over who have a weakened immune system

The NHS will contact those who are eligible to make a spring booster appointment, so people should wait until they hear from the NHS. The NHS will prioritise those whose clinical need is greatest, as it has throughout, starting with those who have had a bigger gap since their last dose, then working through the cohort to invite others who have waited less time. Everyone who is eligible will be offered a top up between three and six months over the Spring and early Summer.

In February, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advised a spring dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for:

  • adults aged 75 years and over
  • residents in care homes for older adults
  • individuals aged 12 years and over who have a weakened immune system

The NHS will contact those who are eligible to make a spring booster appointment, so people should wait until they hear from the NHS. The NHS will prioritise those whose clinical need is greatest, as it has throughout, starting with those who have had a bigger gap since their last dose, then working through the cohort to invite others who have waited less time. Everyone who is eligible will be offered a top up between three and six months over the Spring and early Summer.

22 Mar, 2022
31 Jan, 2022
Information for GP websites re: 5-11 at-risk vaccinations

Vaccinations for 5-11 year-olds at-risk

  • The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised that 5 to 11-year-olds who are either in a clinical risk group or are a ousehold contact of someone who is immunosuppressed should be offered two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, with a minimum interval of eight weeks.
  • This means around half a million children nationally will soon be invited to take up their jab.
  • The JCVI has set out criteria for determining who should be offered vaccination within this group and clinicians will be responsible for identifying children in their care who are eligible.
  • Information on eligibility can be found in the Green Book, chapter 14a in the section on children aged 5-11 years and tables 3 and 4.

How will I know if my child is eligible?

  • GPs and hospital specialists have been asked to identify 5 to 11-year-olds who are eligible. For children eligible as a household contact, we will write directly to the person who is immunosuppressed.
  • Parents and guardians will be notified if their child should get the vaccine and told how they can book an appointment. The NHS will be in touch in the coming weeks if your child is eligible, so it’s important that parents wait to hear from us and do not contact their GP.

Vaccinations for 5-11 year-olds at-risk

  • The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised that 5 to 11-year-olds who are either in a clinical risk group or are a ousehold contact of someone who is immunosuppressed should be offered two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, with a minimum interval of eight weeks.
  • This means around half a million children nationally will soon be invited to take up their jab.
  • The JCVI has set out criteria for determining who should be offered vaccination within this group and clinicians will be responsible for identifying children in their care who are eligible.
  • Information on eligibility can be found in the Green Book, chapter 14a in the section on children aged 5-11 years and tables 3 and 4.

How will I know if my child is eligible?

  • GPs and hospital specialists have been asked to identify 5 to 11-year-olds who are eligible. For children eligible as a household contact, we will write directly to the person who is immunosuppressed.
  • Parents and guardians will be notified if their child should get the vaccine and told how they can book an appointment. The NHS will be in touch in the coming weeks if your child is eligible, so it’s important that parents wait to hear from us and do not contact their GP.
eConsult will be switched off during the Christmas bank holiday period

Any eConsult request you submit outside of our normal surgery opening hours will not be read until we open the next working day.

Whilst you are still able to submit an online consultation during the bank holiday periods, after the surgery has closed, this will not be seen until the day after the bank holiday, when the surgery reopens. All the other eConsult advice services will still be accessible 24/7. 

NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem when your GP practice is closed. Dial 111 on any phone for advice, or visit the NHS 111 website – 111.nhs.uk. Remember to call 999 at any time in a medical emergency. This is when someone is seriously ill, or injured, and their life is at risk.

Any eConsult request you submit outside of our normal surgery opening hours will not be read until we open the next working day.

Whilst you are still able to submit an online consultation during the bank holiday periods, after the surgery has closed, this will not be seen until the day after the bank holiday, when the surgery reopens. All the other eConsult advice services will still be accessible 24/7. 

NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem when your GP practice is closed. Dial 111 on any phone for advice, or visit the NHS 111 website – 111.nhs.uk. Remember to call 999 at any time in a medical emergency. This is when someone is seriously ill, or injured, and their life is at risk.

Don't Delay Your Covid Booster Jab - Book Now

In order to protect yourselves, your families and the NHS please ‘grab a covid vaccine jab’.

You can book your booster jab …or indeed your first or second jab using the links below. You may also get a text message from your local GP offering appointments

Don’t delay …BOOK NOW

Book or manage a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Find a walk-in coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination site - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

In order to protect yourselves, your families and the NHS please ‘grab a covid vaccine jab’.

You can book your booster jab …or indeed your first or second jab using the links below. You may also get a text message from your local GP offering appointments

Don’t delay …BOOK NOW

Book or manage a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Find a walk-in coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination site - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Covid-19 Booster Vaccination - Update 13th Dec 2021

The NHS vaccination programme will offer every adult the chance to book a covid-19 booster vaccine by the end of the year to protect the nation against the Omicron variant.

As part of the biggest and fastest vaccine programme in health service history, online bookings are available for all those in their 30s and above from today.

The best way to get your vaccine is by booking online at www.nhs.uk or by calling 119 – please do keep checking availability as appointments are loaded onto the system every day. The website and phoneline are understandably very busy and we thank you for your patience when booking.

The national booking service will then open up to everyone aged 18 and over from Wednesday this week.

The NHS is prioritising bookings for boosters and is urging people to book a slot to guarantee their vital jab. Some sites offer walk-in appointments where no appointment is needed. Please check here for clinics with walk-in availability and their opening hours www.happyhealthylives.uk/vaccinationdrop-ins

GP teams have been asked to clinically prioritise their services to free up maximal capacity to support the covid-19 vaccination programme, alongside delivering critical appointments such as cancer, urgent and emergency care. This might mean that for some people, routine appointments are postponed as part of the national mission to roll out boosters.

Scientists are very concerned about the spread of Omicron due to the speed with which it spreads and because two doses do not appear to provide much protection but thankfully, a booster dramatically improves this.That is why the Government has asked the NHS to prioritise boosters over other routine care.

We appreciate your support and understanding – and urge you to come forward for your vaccination as soon as possible.

The NHS vaccination programme will offer every adult the chance to book a covid-19 booster vaccine by the end of the year to protect the nation against the Omicron variant.

As part of the biggest and fastest vaccine programme in health service history, online bookings are available for all those in their 30s and above from today.

The best way to get your vaccine is by booking online at www.nhs.uk or by calling 119 – please do keep checking availability as appointments are loaded onto the system every day. The website and phoneline are understandably very busy and we thank you for your patience when booking.

The national booking service will then open up to everyone aged 18 and over from Wednesday this week.

The NHS is prioritising bookings for boosters and is urging people to book a slot to guarantee their vital jab. Some sites offer walk-in appointments where no appointment is needed. Please check here for clinics with walk-in availability and their opening hours www.happyhealthylives.uk/vaccinationdrop-ins

GP teams have been asked to clinically prioritise their services to free up maximal capacity to support the covid-19 vaccination programme, alongside delivering critical appointments such as cancer, urgent and emergency care. This might mean that for some people, routine appointments are postponed as part of the national mission to roll out boosters.

Scientists are very concerned about the spread of Omicron due to the speed with which it spreads and because two doses do not appear to provide much protection but thankfully, a booster dramatically improves this.That is why the Government has asked the NHS to prioritise boosters over other routine care.

We appreciate your support and understanding – and urge you to come forward for your vaccination as soon as possible.

Young Persons Advice

View Leaflet for advice and support options.


 

View Leaflet for advice and support options.


 

Patient Access Emails

EMIS Health have received reports from both Patient Access users and people who have never registered for the service, that they have received Covid passport emails purporting to be from Patient Access.

They would like to share the following guidance from Patient Access:

  • EMIS Health advise users of Patient Access to check the name and email address of the sender; all emails from Patient Access will come via an email address that ends in @patientaccess.com.
  • EMIS Health advise users never to click on any log in links that you receive via email but to visit the site via the address bar of your browser instead so that you know you are on the genuine Patient Access log in page. You can find more information and guidance on our information security page here: https://www.patientaccess.com/security
  • EMIS Health strongly advise users to set up their Memorable Word security feature, as well as using biometrics (fingerprint ID) if they use the app.
  • Email addresses used to register for Patient Access account are secure. They do not share any data and no data is ever saved or stored on any device you use to access Patient Access.

EMIS Health have received reports from both Patient Access users and people who have never registered for the service, that they have received Covid passport emails purporting to be from Patient Access.

They would like to share the following guidance from Patient Access:

  • EMIS Health advise users of Patient Access to check the name and email address of the sender; all emails from Patient Access will come via an email address that ends in @patientaccess.com.
  • EMIS Health advise users never to click on any log in links that you receive via email but to visit the site via the address bar of your browser instead so that you know you are on the genuine Patient Access log in page. You can find more information and guidance on our information security page here: https://www.patientaccess.com/security
  • EMIS Health strongly advise users to set up their Memorable Word security feature, as well as using biometrics (fingerprint ID) if they use the app.
  • Email addresses used to register for Patient Access account are secure. They do not share any data and no data is ever saved or stored on any device you use to access Patient Access.
School Flu Vaccination Programme

The school flu vaccination programme is going ahead this year. All schools will have completed their flu clinics by the end of the year. Some clinics have been pushed back slightly to accommodate the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccination clinics that are currently taking place in schools. There is no need to contact your GP about the school flu vaccination programme – you will hear from your school as usual in due course.

The school flu vaccination programme is going ahead this year. All schools will have completed their flu clinics by the end of the year. Some clinics have been pushed back slightly to accommodate the roll out of the Covid-19 vaccination clinics that are currently taking place in schools. There is no need to contact your GP about the school flu vaccination programme – you will hear from your school as usual in due course.

Covid-19 Vaccine for 12-15 year olds

The government has announced that all children aged 12 to 15 in England will be offered one dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine. Invitations for the vaccine are expected to begin next week (20-26 September). 

The vaccination programme for this age group will be delivered through schools, not via GP practices. Parents and guardians of those eligible will be contacted when it’s their turn to get the vaccine. 

Covid-19 booster jabs are expected to be offered to eligible groups in the coming weeks.   The booster jab should be given at least six months after your second dose of the vaccine. 

The NHS will contact you when it is your turn to get the booster vaccine, so please don’t contact the NHS. If you are invited, it is vital you attend so that you have the best possible protection against Covid-19.

The government has announced that all children aged 12 to 15 in England will be offered one dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine. Invitations for the vaccine are expected to begin next week (20-26 September). 

The vaccination programme for this age group will be delivered through schools, not via GP practices. Parents and guardians of those eligible will be contacted when it’s their turn to get the vaccine. 

Covid-19 booster jabs are expected to be offered to eligible groups in the coming weeks.   The booster jab should be given at least six months after your second dose of the vaccine. 

The NHS will contact you when it is your turn to get the booster vaccine, so please don’t contact the NHS. If you are invited, it is vital you attend so that you have the best possible protection against Covid-19.

URGENT NEWS ABOUT BLOOD TESTS

A supplier to the NHS has advised us of a global shortage of some equipment used for taking blood tests.

Anyone who needs a test for urgent health problems will still get one, but where your clinician recommends that it’s safe to do so, then you may be asked to come back for a test at a later date, or your appointment may be rescheduled.

Given the nature of the shortage, we cannot give an exact date for when the test will be rescheduled, but please be assured that if your condition or symptoms require it, then you will get a test, and we will be re-booking your test when supplies become more easily available.

If your condition or symptoms change or get worse, please contact the NHS as you would normally.

A supplier to the NHS has advised us of a global shortage of some equipment used for taking blood tests.

Anyone who needs a test for urgent health problems will still get one, but where your clinician recommends that it’s safe to do so, then you may be asked to come back for a test at a later date, or your appointment may be rescheduled.

Given the nature of the shortage, we cannot give an exact date for when the test will be rescheduled, but please be assured that if your condition or symptoms require it, then you will get a test, and we will be re-booking your test when supplies become more easily available.

If your condition or symptoms change or get worse, please contact the NHS as you would normally.

COVID-19 Vaccine Update

You may have seen in national news items that the Government are considering extending the vaccine offer to 16 - 17 year olds.

There is nothing you need to do now - you will be contacted and invited for your vaccination as soon as the programme is up-and-running.

We are currently waiting for the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to update and publish. We are also currently awaiting guidance on the vaccination of 12 - 17 year old clinically vulnerable children and will be in touch as and when we have further information.

You may have seen in national news items that the Government are considering extending the vaccine offer to 16 - 17 year olds.

There is nothing you need to do now - you will be contacted and invited for your vaccination as soon as the programme is up-and-running.

We are currently waiting for the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to update and publish. We are also currently awaiting guidance on the vaccination of 12 - 17 year old clinically vulnerable children and will be in touch as and when we have further information.

Latest update by NHSD regarding Type-1 Opt Out

The current NHS Digital (NHSD) extract of GP data for Research purposes (known as the GPDPR) has been delayed due to NHSD wishing to review the way in which this data will be collected, to conduct more public involvement and information about the plans and change the way in which patients can opt out of the extract of their GP data.

Currently the only way to opt out is to complete a Type 1 opt out form and return this to the practice. There was a deadline of the 1st September but this deadline has been removed (see below):

However, this extract will not be taken until the NHSD have changed the way it will take the data and respect the patient’s choice for using their data.  NHSD are introducing the following changes to the opt outprocess which will mean that patients will be able to change their opt-out status at any time:

  • Patients do not need to register a Type 1 opt-out by 1st September to ensure their GP data will not be uploaded.
  • NHS Digital will create the technical means to allow GP data that has previously been uploaded to the system via the GPDPR collection to be deleted when someone registers a Type 1 opt-out.
  • The plan to retire Type 1 opt-outs will be deferred for at least 12 months while we get the new arrangements up and running and will not be implemented without consultation with the RCGP, the BMA and the National Data Guardian.

This means that you can opt out at any time in the future and NHSD will delete data that they already have taken for research purposes, the deadline of the 01/09/2020 has been delayed until a new system of opt out is developed.  Hopefully, this will be a simple centralised approach via the NHS app or NHS website to avoid paper form and administration work for your GP.

We will update you when we know more about the NHSD plans to change how you can control who has access to your data.

For further information on this - please click here.

The current NHS Digital (NHSD) extract of GP data for Research purposes (known as the GPDPR) has been delayed due to NHSD wishing to review the way in which this data will be collected, to conduct more public involvement and information about the plans and change the way in which patients can opt out of the extract of their GP data.

Currently the only way to opt out is to complete a Type 1 opt out form and return this to the practice. There was a deadline of the 1st September but this deadline has been removed (see below):

However, this extract will not be taken until the NHSD have changed the way it will take the data and respect the patient’s choice for using their data.  NHSD are introducing the following changes to the opt outprocess which will mean that patients will be able to change their opt-out status at any time:

  • Patients do not need to register a Type 1 opt-out by 1st September to ensure their GP data will not be uploaded.
  • NHS Digital will create the technical means to allow GP data that has previously been uploaded to the system via the GPDPR collection to be deleted when someone registers a Type 1 opt-out.
  • The plan to retire Type 1 opt-outs will be deferred for at least 12 months while we get the new arrangements up and running and will not be implemented without consultation with the RCGP, the BMA and the National Data Guardian.

This means that you can opt out at any time in the future and NHSD will delete data that they already have taken for research purposes, the deadline of the 01/09/2020 has been delayed until a new system of opt out is developed.  Hopefully, this will be a simple centralised approach via the NHS app or NHS website to avoid paper form and administration work for your GP.

We will update you when we know more about the NHSD plans to change how you can control who has access to your data.

For further information on this - please click here.

Infection prevention control guidelines to remain in place

The highest priority for the NHS remains the safety of staff, patients and visitors. While COVID restrictions will end in many settings in England from 19 July, everyone accessing or visiting healthcare settings must continue to wear a face covering (unless they are exempt) and follow social distancing rules.

Public Health England’s infection prevention control guidelines and hospital visiting guidance are therefore set to remain in place for all staff and visitors and across all health services including hospitals, GP practices, dentists, optometrists and pharmacies to ensure patients and staff are protected.

Read the infection prevention control guidance for further details.

The highest priority for the NHS remains the safety of staff, patients and visitors. While COVID restrictions will end in many settings in England from 19 July, everyone accessing or visiting healthcare settings must continue to wear a face covering (unless they are exempt) and follow social distancing rules.

Public Health England’s infection prevention control guidelines and hospital visiting guidance are therefore set to remain in place for all staff and visitors and across all health services including hospitals, GP practices, dentists, optometrists and pharmacies to ensure patients and staff are protected.

Read the infection prevention control guidance for further details.

Sleep Newsletter

Please read this Sleep Newsletter to understand details on sleep regulations and functions.

Please read this Sleep Newsletter to understand details on sleep regulations and functions.

GENERAL PRACTICE DATA FOR PLANNING AND RESEARCH DATA COLLECTION

Patients wishing to register a Type 1 Opt out from the NHS Digital General Practice Data for Planning and Research collection which starts on 1st September 2021 should download this form and return it to the Practice.

More information on this data collection can be found here.

Video - How the NHS uses your patient data from GP practices to improve health and care

Patients wishing to register a Type 1 Opt out from the NHS Digital General Practice Data for Planning and Research collection which starts on 1st September 2021 should download this form and return it to the Practice.

More information on this data collection can be found here.

Video - How the NHS uses your patient data from GP practices to improve health and care

Practice Update

Following the recent government guidance, the Southam Surgery team want to reassure our patients that we are still fully operational & working hard to ensure the best possible care for our local community. We must continue to practice in a covid safe way in line with this guidance, so please still do to contact us by phone in the first instance. 

This also help us do our best to meet the increase in demand for appointments. If we cannot help you to resolve your problem over the phone we will help to arrange an appropriate appointment for you to be seen. If you have no access to telephone or online forms of contact, we will provide appropriate face to face contact, whilst maintaining covid safe restrictions. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Following the recent government guidance, the Southam Surgery team want to reassure our patients that we are still fully operational & working hard to ensure the best possible care for our local community. We must continue to practice in a covid safe way in line with this guidance, so please still do to contact us by phone in the first instance. 

This also help us do our best to meet the increase in demand for appointments. If we cannot help you to resolve your problem over the phone we will help to arrange an appropriate appointment for you to be seen. If you have no access to telephone or online forms of contact, we will provide appropriate face to face contact, whilst maintaining covid safe restrictions. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Important Information on Covid Vaccine Certificate

Please do not contact the surgery to enquire about covid vaccination certificates.

We are unable to issue this certificate at the practice.

Please see https://www.gov.uk/guidance/demonstrating-your-covid-19-vaccination-status-when-travelling-abroad for further information.

Proof of your vaccination status will be available on the NHSapp, which is also valuable for accessing your health records and ordering repeat prescriptions. Refer Online Services page to download it.

Alternatively you can call the NHS helpline on 119 (from 17 May) and ask for a letter to be posted to you. This must be at least 5 days after you've completed your course of the vaccine, the letter may to take up to 5 days to reach you.

Please do not contact the surgery to enquire about covid vaccination certificates.

We are unable to issue this certificate at the practice.

Please see https://www.gov.uk/guidance/demonstrating-your-covid-19-vaccination-status-when-travelling-abroad for further information.

Proof of your vaccination status will be available on the NHSapp, which is also valuable for accessing your health records and ordering repeat prescriptions. Refer Online Services page to download it.

Alternatively you can call the NHS helpline on 119 (from 17 May) and ask for a letter to be posted to you. This must be at least 5 days after you've completed your course of the vaccine, the letter may to take up to 5 days to reach you.

Patient Led Gardening Group at Southam Surgery – Stowe Drive

Please read all details here.

Please read all details here.

Important Information on Vaccine

If you are in touch regarding concerns about the Oxford Astra Zeneca, Public Health England have produced a patient information leaflet that is available here.

If you are in touch regarding concerns about the Oxford Astra Zeneca, Public Health England have produced a patient information leaflet that is available here.

NHS e-Referral service: Putting patients in control of their outpatient appointments
Annual Health Reviews

From April 2021, the practice team has decided to carry out these reviews during your birthday month.

The surgery is starting a new procedure of annual reviews for patients who are identified as having one or more chronic illness which should be monitored at least once a year. 

This will benefit you in the following ways:

  1. Make it more convenient for you by reducing the number of times you are asked to attend the surgery
  2. Reduce the amount of correspondence and text messages that you receive from the surgery
  3. Make it easier to remember when your reviews are due
  4. Mean that there are more appointments available for health problems that need urgent attention.

Please see our dedicated page for more information and frequently asked questions.

From April 2021, the practice team has decided to carry out these reviews during your birthday month.

The surgery is starting a new procedure of annual reviews for patients who are identified as having one or more chronic illness which should be monitored at least once a year. 

This will benefit you in the following ways:

  1. Make it more convenient for you by reducing the number of times you are asked to attend the surgery
  2. Reduce the amount of correspondence and text messages that you receive from the surgery
  3. Make it easier to remember when your reviews are due
  4. Mean that there are more appointments available for health problems that need urgent attention.

Please see our dedicated page for more information and frequently asked questions.

Covid Vaccination Fraud Scam

Please be aware of a covid-19 vaccine fraud scam that is currently circulating.

This is in the form of a text, which takes you through to an extremely convincing fake NHS website that asks for your personal details.

Please see the attached document for more information.

Please be aware of a covid-19 vaccine fraud scam that is currently circulating.

This is in the form of a text, which takes you through to an extremely convincing fake NHS website that asks for your personal details.

Please see the attached document for more information.

Covid-19 Vaccination Update

Covid-19 vaccination: Don’t call us, we will call you

We are vaccinating in line with the guidance set out by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), who decide the order in which people should be vaccinated. The poster attached demonstrates the top priority groups. 

The focus currently is on vaccinating groups 1 – 4 (in order from the top priority downwards) and GPs are working tirelessly to offer the vaccine to eligible groups as quickly as possible. The top four priority groups are:

  1. Residents in a care home for older adults and staff working in care homes for older adults
  2. All those 80 years of age and over and health and social care workers
  3. All those 75 years of age and over
  4. All those 70 years of age and over and clinically extremely vulnerable individuals (not including pregnant women and those under 18 years of age)

When it is your turn to receive the vaccine, you will be contacted and invited to attend an appointment. You may receive an invite to attend the following sites, but you have a choice about which to attend: 

  • Mass vaccination centre – Birmingham Millennium Point or NAEC Stoneleigh Centre

Local vaccination site – if you cannot travel to a mass vaccination centre, you can wait to be contacted by the South Warwickshire GP Federation or Local Vaccination Hub to attend a local vaccination site. Details of the local vaccination sites can be found on the CCG’s website.

  • Hospital – in or out hospital patients may be offered the vaccine at a hospital hub

If you are in priority cohorts 1 – 4 and have not been contacted by Wednesday 17 February, please contact your GP to let them know. Please do not contact your GP about the vaccine before this date.

If you have already received your first vaccination, you will receive another invitation to receive your second dose within three months of having your first vaccine. This is in line with national guidance, and more information on this decision can be found on the Government’s website.

If you have any questions, please view the Frequently Asked Questions page on the CCG’s website (NHS South Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group - Your Health - FAQs ).

Covid-19 vaccination: Don’t call us, we will call you

We are vaccinating in line with the guidance set out by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), who decide the order in which people should be vaccinated. The poster attached demonstrates the top priority groups. 

The focus currently is on vaccinating groups 1 – 4 (in order from the top priority downwards) and GPs are working tirelessly to offer the vaccine to eligible groups as quickly as possible. The top four priority groups are:

  1. Residents in a care home for older adults and staff working in care homes for older adults
  2. All those 80 years of age and over and health and social care workers
  3. All those 75 years of age and over
  4. All those 70 years of age and over and clinically extremely vulnerable individuals (not including pregnant women and those under 18 years of age)

When it is your turn to receive the vaccine, you will be contacted and invited to attend an appointment. You may receive an invite to attend the following sites, but you have a choice about which to attend: 

  • Mass vaccination centre – Birmingham Millennium Point or NAEC Stoneleigh Centre

Local vaccination site – if you cannot travel to a mass vaccination centre, you can wait to be contacted by the South Warwickshire GP Federation or Local Vaccination Hub to attend a local vaccination site. Details of the local vaccination sites can be found on the CCG’s website.

  • Hospital – in or out hospital patients may be offered the vaccine at a hospital hub

If you are in priority cohorts 1 – 4 and have not been contacted by Wednesday 17 February, please contact your GP to let them know. Please do not contact your GP about the vaccine before this date.

If you have already received your first vaccination, you will receive another invitation to receive your second dose within three months of having your first vaccine. This is in line with national guidance, and more information on this decision can be found on the Government’s website.

If you have any questions, please view the Frequently Asked Questions page on the CCG’s website (NHS South Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group - Your Health - FAQs ).

Follow Germ Defence for this Christmas

With COVID-19 infections still high, it is vital that we try to reduce the spread of infections in people’s homes over Christmas. The Germ Defence website gives practical advice on how  patients can do this and now also has a new section about making plans for Christmas. Please  click on the following link.

With COVID-19 infections still high, it is vital that we try to reduce the spread of infections in people’s homes over Christmas. The Germ Defence website gives practical advice on how  patients can do this and now also has a new section about making plans for Christmas. Please  click on the following link.

Vitamin D Supplements

During the autumn and winter months everyone is advised to take a supplement of vitamin D every day to support general health and in particular for bone and muscle health. Many of us have been indoors more than usual this year and so might not have been making enough vitamin D from sunlight. You can find general advice on vitamin D here: https://www.nhs.uk/vitamin-d

This advice is particularly important for people who have been shielding this year due to COVID-19, or who are living in care homes, because they are most likely to have been indoors over the spring and summer and so may not have been able to obtain enough vitamin D from sunlight.

The Government is offering a free 4-month supply of daily supplements of vitamin D for all adults who are clinically extremely vulnerable to support general health and in particular for bone and muscle health. If you would like to opt-in to receive your free supply of vitamin D, you will need register your details between 30 November 2020 and 4 January 2021 at the following link: https://www.nhs.uk/get-vitamin-d

You do not need to opt-in to receive the vitamin D supplements if:

  • You are already taking, or are prescribed, a vitamin D supplement by your GP or healthcare professional
  • You are currently living in a nursing or residential care home as we will provide these direct to the home where you live.

It is expected that vitamin D supplements distribution will begin from January 2021. Further guidance on how to safely take vitamin D supplements will be provided during the opt in process.

 

During the autumn and winter months everyone is advised to take a supplement of vitamin D every day to support general health and in particular for bone and muscle health. Many of us have been indoors more than usual this year and so might not have been making enough vitamin D from sunlight. You can find general advice on vitamin D here: https://www.nhs.uk/vitamin-d

This advice is particularly important for people who have been shielding this year due to COVID-19, or who are living in care homes, because they are most likely to have been indoors over the spring and summer and so may not have been able to obtain enough vitamin D from sunlight.

The Government is offering a free 4-month supply of daily supplements of vitamin D for all adults who are clinically extremely vulnerable to support general health and in particular for bone and muscle health. If you would like to opt-in to receive your free supply of vitamin D, you will need register your details between 30 November 2020 and 4 January 2021 at the following link: https://www.nhs.uk/get-vitamin-d

You do not need to opt-in to receive the vitamin D supplements if:

  • You are already taking, or are prescribed, a vitamin D supplement by your GP or healthcare professional
  • You are currently living in a nursing or residential care home as we will provide these direct to the home where you live.

It is expected that vitamin D supplements distribution will begin from January 2021. Further guidance on how to safely take vitamin D supplements will be provided during the opt in process.

 

How to Access your GP Practice During Covid
GP+ Booking Line

The GP+ booking line will be stood down week commencing 30.11.2020.

EA GP+ has direct booking via NHS 111 available which patients can access when practice is closed.  This change will also occur from wc 30.11.2020

The GP+ booking line will be stood down week commencing 30.11.2020.

EA GP+ has direct booking via NHS 111 available which patients can access when practice is closed.  This change will also occur from wc 30.11.2020

We are now providing to people aged 50-64 their free flu vaccine

We are getting ready to be able to give flu vaccinations to people aged 50-64 as part of the largest flu vaccination programme in NHS history.

If eligible, please contact the surgery to book an appointment.

We are getting ready to be able to give flu vaccinations to people aged 50-64 as part of the largest flu vaccination programme in NHS history.

If eligible, please contact the surgery to book an appointment.

Introducing the Clinical Pharmacist Health Check

The CP health check stands for a clinical pharmacist health check. This is a 30 minute appointment, currently via telephone, where a clinical pharmacist will focus on the management of your repeat medication.

This review will include:

  • Ensuring all monitoring is up to date
  • Checking your understanding and compliance of your medication
  • Looking at the effectiveness of your current regime
  • Comparing your medication to the current up to date guidance
  • Addressing any concerns you may have and referring appropriately to the most suitable professional​

*Note this service is by invitation only, or if your have been directly referred by your healthcare professional.

The CP health check stands for a clinical pharmacist health check. This is a 30 minute appointment, currently via telephone, where a clinical pharmacist will focus on the management of your repeat medication.

This review will include:

  • Ensuring all monitoring is up to date
  • Checking your understanding and compliance of your medication
  • Looking at the effectiveness of your current regime
  • Comparing your medication to the current up to date guidance
  • Addressing any concerns you may have and referring appropriately to the most suitable professional​

*Note this service is by invitation only, or if your have been directly referred by your healthcare professional.

Pregnancy Self-Referrals

You no longer need to see a GP to inform them of your pregnancy or to organise a referral to the midwifery team. Instead please click on the link to be re-directed to our Pregnancy Self-Referral Page where you can find extra information and our online booking form.

Although you don’t routinely need to book an appointment with a Doctor when you find out that you are pregnant, if you feel that you need additional support or have specific questions then please contact Reception to arrange an appointment.

You no longer need to see a GP to inform them of your pregnancy or to organise a referral to the midwifery team. Instead please click on the link to be re-directed to our Pregnancy Self-Referral Page where you can find extra information and our online booking form.

Although you don’t routinely need to book an appointment with a Doctor when you find out that you are pregnant, if you feel that you need additional support or have specific questions then please contact Reception to arrange an appointment.

Face Masks and Coverings

If you are asked to come down to the Surgery for a face-face appointment, please wear a face mask or covering to protect yourself and our staff.

If you are asked to come down to the Surgery for a face-face appointment, please wear a face mask or covering to protect yourself and our staff.

Change to Processing of Urine Samples

Please note, due to Covid-19 we will NOT be testing any urine samples that have not been specifically requested by the practice. Therefore unless you have been requested to do so, do not drop off samples in our post-box.

If you think that you may have an urinary tract infection, please:


1. Read this information leaflet if you are under 65 years of age
2. Read this information leaflet if you are over 65 years of age.

If after reading the leaflet you feel that you need to speak to a member of our clinical team, please contact our Reception or complete an E-consult.

Please note, due to Covid-19 we will NOT be testing any urine samples that have not been specifically requested by the practice. Therefore unless you have been requested to do so, do not drop off samples in our post-box.

If you think that you may have an urinary tract infection, please:


1. Read this information leaflet if you are under 65 years of age
2. Read this information leaflet if you are over 65 years of age.

If after reading the leaflet you feel that you need to speak to a member of our clinical team, please contact our Reception or complete an E-consult.

Related Information