Do you close at lunchtimes?
No our reception is open over lunchtime.
What do I do if I am pregnant?
There’s no need to book in to see a GP, you can book in to see the midwife by telephoning 01270 273127.
Why does the receptionist need to ask what’s wrong with me?
The reception staff are members of the practice team and it has been agreed they should ask patients ‘why they need to be seen’. Reception staff are trained to ask certain questions in order to ensure that you receive the most appropriate medical care from the most appropriate health professional at the most appropriate time.
The receptionists are asked to collect brief information from patients to help:
- Doctors prioritise house visits and phone calls
- Ensure patients receive the appropriate level of care
- Direct patients to see the nurse or other health professionals such as the nurse practitioner, practice pharmacist or physiotherapist, rather than a doctor where appropriate.
Reception staff, like all members of the team, are bound by confidentiality rules:
- Any information given by you is treated strictly confidentially.
- The practice would take any breach of confidentiality very seriously and deal with it accordingly.
- You can ask to speak to the receptionist in private, away from the reception desk.
- However, if you feel your issue is very private and do not wish to say what this is, then this will be respected.
What is CQC?
The CQC (Care Quality Commission) is the organisation making sure health and social care services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate, high-quality care and encourage care services to improve.
Before a care provider can carry out any of the activities that regulated by the CQC, they must register and satisfy them that they will be able to meet a number of legal requirements. Activities regulated includes the treatment, care and support provided by hospitals, GP practices, dental practices, ambulance services, care homes and home-care agencies.
For more information about the CQC, you can visit their website.
How do I get forms completed or letters from the GP?
If you need any paperwork completing by a GP for insurance purposes etc, please hand in the paperwork to reception with the relevant fee (see charges displayed in reception). If you require a letter from a GP, please put the details of what is required in writing and hand into reception along with the relevant fee.
How do I update my personal information?
If you have a new address or phone number then please contact our reception team who will be able to update your details on our system.
Can I choose a male or female GP?
Yes, if you would prefer see a GP of the same sex, please mention this to the receptionist when booking an appointment.
Are you open on Bank Holidays?
No, we are closed on Bank Holidays. However, if you need medical advice or attention during this time you can:
Visit your pharmacy – Your local pharmacy can provide confidential, expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and complaint. Visit NHS Choices to find a pharmacy open near you.
Call NHS 111 – If you need urgent medical advice but your condition is not life threatening. NHS 111 Is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobiles.
A&E or 999 – for a genuine medical emergency including; loss of consciousness, acute confused state and fits that are not stopping, persistent and/or severe chest pain, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding that cannot be stopped.
When will I have my Cervical Screening(Smear) Test?
All women registered with a GP will be sent a letter inviting them to their screening at:
- age 25 to 49– then again every three years
- age 50 to 64– then again every five years
- over 65– only women who haven’t been screened since age 50 or those who have recently had abnormal tests