Swineshead Medical Group

Surgery News 2008

The practice will continue to host medical students and Foundation Year 2 doctors during the coming months.  At the moment we have Dr Somasundram and Dr Islam with us until March and I am sure you will welcome them to the practice.  Hopefully Dr Herszenhorn will be returning in the next few weeks to complete his final training.

Training afternoons will take place on Thursday 24 January 2008, Thursday 21 February 2008 and Thursday 17 April. Other dates will be advised when available but training generally takes place on the third Thursday each month.

Dispensary opening times –

Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m to 1.00 p.m and 2.00 p.m to 6.00 p.m.

We dispense medication to patients who live more than 1 mile from a community pharmacy.  Please allow 48 hours (2 working days) from ordering before coming to collect medication, if in doubt, please ring to check if your order is ready.  Some items are not always kept in stock but we receive twice daily deliveries from our supplier.  You can order repeat prescriptions by telephoning 01205 822411 or following the options on the main surgery number 01205 820204. 

If you run out of medications when the surgery is closed you can obtain a 3 day ‘emergency’ supply from a community pharmacy on production of your repeat medication slip; there is a charge for this service. Otherwise you should contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47

If you need medical attention when the surgery is closed please contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or contact Out of Hours Service (6.30 p.m to 8.00 a.m) on 0845 045 0281

Minor Illness - Our Practice Nurses are able to see, treat and offer advice for a wide variety of minor ailments and conditions.  The reception staff will be able to tell you if it is appropriate to see the nurse.  There is more information about self treatment of minor ailments in the practice booklet.  General health advice about many conditions including chronic illnesses and acute self-limiting conditions such as viral illness can be found on the NHS Direct web-site, or by phone on 0845 46 47.

Future services under threat? - The government is taking steps which doctors believe will harm patient services.  It is encouraging commercial companies to set up and provide GP services; family doctors are concerned that, if this happens, profit will come before patient needs. Most people value the services provided by their local GP surgery, the annual national survey tells practices how patients view their services and this shows that most people are happy.  The survey helps us plan new services or improvements to the care we offer.  We value your support.  There is more information on the surgery notice board or you can visit the public section of the British Medical Association website at www.bma.org.uk

Fairfax House Patient Forum – look out for quiz sheets coming out soon and also for coffee mornings in the next few months.  The forum are looking for car drivers who have a few hours to spare to support the voluntary car scheme, drivers would be reimbursed for mileage.  Please contact the Practice Manager for information about Forum activities.