CLINICS

Antenatal Clinic

The antenatal clinic is held by the doctors each Tuesday or Thursday from 1.00pm. Please make an appointment with reception stating whether this is your first visit, postnatal or a follow-up. Please try to maintain continuity by staying with the same doctor throughout your pregnancy.

If you are planning a pregnancy remember to take Folic Acid supplements, continuing them until at least 12 weeks into your pregnancy. They have been proven to reduce the chance of neural tube defects (spina bifida and hydrocephalus). The doctors are happy to discuss other aspects of preconceptual care during a routine surgery appointment.

Well Woman or Well Man Clinic

A clinic is available available during normal surgery hours with a practice nurse.

Minor Surgery

The doctors offer this service to our patients by prior arrangement.

Asthma Clinics

These are run by the practice nurse every Thursday and Friday to improve your understanding of asthma and to help you use your inhaler(s) properly and advise on the best treatment to keep you free of symptoms.

Contraception (Free under the NHS)

For general enquiries please see the practice nurse. You can see either a doctor or the practice nurse for six monthly follow-up checks. Emergency contraception advice is available at all chemists or during surgery times.

Infant And Under Five Year Old Development Checks

Your doctor, in association with your health visitor, offers routine check ups for your children. We also strongly recommend that your child is fully protected by vaccination.

We recommend:
Diphtheria, Whooping Cough, Tetanus, Hib, Meningitis C and Polio at ages 2, 3 and 4 months.
Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) between 13 months and 18 months.
Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio, MMR booster at age 4 years.
Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio at age 15 years.

Immunisation

Given by our practice nurses. Influenza clinics are held yearly in September and October. Holiday vaccinations and malaria tablets may be required for you embark; please check with the nurse before your holiday. Please ensure that you and your children are fully vaccinated.

Blood Pressure

The practice nurses work together with the doctors to monitor your blood pressure and offer healthy lifestyle advice when appropriate.

Cervical Smears

Generally, these should be done every three years. A reminder will be sent when your test is due. An appointment can then be made with either your own doctor, a female doctor or the practice nurse. If your test is abnormal, you will be notified by phone or letter within six weeks.

Diabetic Care

The practice is actively involved in diabetes management. For routine reviews please see Caroline Cain, the practice nurse, on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday. Dr James also has an interest in the care of diabetics.

Influenza Immunisation

We offer free flu vaccinations, commencing in October, to all our patients over 65 years of age. Younger patients, particularly those at risk from heart or chest complaints, and all diabetics will be offered the vaccine.

Pregnancy Testing

Pregnancy testing is widely available from chemists and kits may be purchased from them. We do not routinely offer this service as home testing is just as reliable, considerably quicker and more convenient. If you think you might be pregnant, arrange to see your doctor at the next routine appointment where you will be able to discuss your plans for the pregnancy.

Private Medicals and Non-NHS Services

Some services you may require are not covered by the NHS remit and are therefore chargeable. These include certain certificates, examinations for fitness to participate in sports, pre-employment examinations and those for elderly drivers and HGV/PSV licences. Please confirm the fee at the time of making your appointment. We are also able to offer this service to patients who are not registered with our practice.