Referrals What do we mean by referrals? A referral is when your GP wants the help of a specialist to decide how best to treat you. Specialists can carry out tests and investigations that we cannot do in practice. The Doctor will discuss the reasons for referring you and if you are happy to be … Continued
Sick Notes, Fit Notes and Self-Certification A fit note is a letter from a Doctor, usually your GP, telling your employer you cannot work due to your health. The technical term for a fit note is a Statement of Fitness for Work, but you will also hear them referred to as Doctor’s notes, medical statements … Continued
Sexual Health The NHS has a range of free, confidential sexual health services. These services cover contraception, testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), and advice on unplanned pregnancies. You can use any of these services even if you are under 16 years old. If you are aged 13 or older, you have the same rights … Continued
What is screening? The NHS has a comprehensive screening plan designed to identify if you are at higher risk of developing several health problems. Risk factors can exist without symptoms, so screening targets otherwise healthy people. Screening means increased risk can be identified and treated early, reducing the chance of the conditions developing. When … Continued
Think Pharmacy First Your local community Pharmacist offers far more services than just medication collection. They can offer advice and treatment for a range of conditions and minor illnesses. You don’t need an appointment. You can just turn up. Many pharmacies are open in the evenings and weekends, too, giving you quicker, more flexible … Continued
Ear syringing Ear irrigation – also known as syringing – is no longer considered the first-line treatment for clearing ear wax. This means the NHS no longer funds it in General Practice as other methods are preferred. Self Help options Current guidelines are that ear drops should be used to soften the wax. … Continued
District Nurses District Nurses take care of people in the community rather than in hospitals. Typically, they will visit patients in their homes or residential care homes. For patients who have physical disabilities or life-limiting illnesses and their families, District Nurses are an essential source of support. Their clinical skills provide people with vital care … Continued
General info on how it works, options available.
General information with focus on who can use GP services
– How to register
– Free access to all including immigrants/asylum seekers
– unregistered/temporary residents
Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS) The Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS) integrates Community Pharmacists into primary care. This means for patients that same-day appointments with Community Pharmacists are available for a range of minor ailments or urgent supplies of regular medication. The service gives patients quicker access to Pharmacists and their expert knowledge and alleviates … Continued
