Latest News from West Moors Village Surgery

a pharmacist serving a customer and the words, How would you improve local pharmacy services in Dorset?  Complete our survey by 31 October and the Healthwatch Dorset logo.
9th Oct

How would you improve local pharacy services in Dorset?

What’s your experience of using local pharmacies in your local community? What works well? What could be improved? 

Healthwatch Dorset is seeking feedback from patients about their experience using local pharmacy services. It doesn't take long, so please consider providing your feedback on this short, confidential survey. 
You can do this online using the link below or call 0300 111 0102 to share your views over the phone or to request the survey in another format or language.
 
The survey closes on October 31st 2024.
 
UKHSA statement on mpox
16th Aug

UK Health Security Agency Statement on mpox

People in our community may have seen reports in the media about the World Health Organization (WHO) identifying mpox as an international public health concern.
 
A statement from the UK Health Security Agency has advised that the risk to the UK population is currently considered low. Nevertheless, be assured that NHS plans are underway to prepare for any cases we might see in the UK. This includes ensuring that clinicians are aware and able to recognise cases promptly, that rapid testing is available, and that protocols are developed for the safe clinical care of people who have the infection and the prevention of onward transmission.
 

Information and advice on mpox is available on the NHS website here>>



 
The practice logo and the words Patient Notice a message from Dr Hennessy
12th Aug

Patient Notice: A message from Dr Hennessy

It has been my privilege working with you at West Moors for twelve and a half years as a family doctor, but I have made the decision to move on and emigrate to Canada. This is partly due to a change in my personal circumstances, and partly to address my own health and wellbeing needs and attempt to maintain a healthy work life balance, which I fear has been steadily eroded. Sadly, I don’t think I am alone in this view, and I sincerely hope that NHS England chooses to renegotiate with GPs prior to planned industrial action later this year.

I am proud that I leave the practice fully staffed (even with my hours taken in to consideration, and for the first time in quite a while!) and that with your help, I have contributed to training the next generation of healthcare professionals, from medical students and GPs to paramedics, physician associates, and advanced care practitioners.

I feel over my time at West Moors I have grown as a doctor, educator, and human being. Despite the challenges the NHS faces, I love the job that I do, and I am looking forwards to different challenges in a new country, new healthcare system, and new role.

I am very grateful for the support  of Dr Gorvin, and the support he and I have in our staff, and I wish Dr Gorvin and the practice every success in the future.

 

Dr Dominic Hennessy

 

UK Health Security Agency and NHS logos and the words The RSV vaccines is available from September 2024. Speak to your midwife, GP practice of health team
24th Jul

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccinations

The UK will become the first country in the world to roll out a national vaccination programme against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), protecting infants & older people from becoming seriously ill. RSV accounts for 39,000 hospitalisations each year.

From 1 Sept, vaccination to protect against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) will be offered to:
 
• Pregnant women (over 28 weeks) to help protect newborn babies
• Adults aged 75+
 
We plan to vaccinate as many people as possible during September and October 2024 before the expected RSV season. Eligible patients will be contacted with an offer of the RSV vaccine once clinic details are finalised.
 
a cartoon image of medications, the NHS Dorset logo and the words #HelpYourNHS   Prescriptions for 35 minor conditions are no longer available in Dorset.  Please visit your pharmacy instead.
12th Jul

Prescribing over the counter medicines - #HelpYourNHS

In line with NHS England recommendations, NHS Dorset has asked GP teams across the county to stop prescribing medicine and treatment for 35 minor conditions.  Medications for these conditions are readily available at your local pharmacy or supermarket. 

This will release thousands of hours of clinical time to enable us, as a GP Practice to focus on caring for people with more complex needs, increasing patient access.

Find out more about this by downloading and viewing the patient information leaflet here>>

Or visit the NHS Dorset website:   https://nhsdorset.nhs.uk/health/medicines/helpyournhs/

Event Poster
25th Jun

Our Next Carers Group Meeting - Monday 8th July

West Moors Village Surgery Carers monthly group meets on the second Monday of every month between 2pm and 4pm at the Fryer Pavilion, Bond Avenue, West Moors BH22 0LJ. 

At July's meeting we will welcome Stacey Hill, of Help & Care's Dementia Coordinator Service.

For more information, please contact Alison Morrison at the surgery or via email to wm.gp@nhs.net.

Don't forget to check out our Carer's Information page for useful information and resources for Carers.

Follow this link to our Carer's Information page>>

Spring COVID-19 booster offer poster
24th Mar

The COVID-19 spring booster vaccination campaign has started

Seasonal COVID Booster Vaccinations are being offered to our patients aged 75 years old or over, those who live in a care home for older adults or are aged 12 or over and have a weakened immune system.

Patients will be contacted if their NHS record suggests they may be eligible for a seasonal spring COVID-19 vaccine to be offered an appointment at drive-through clinics at the Community Vaccination Centre in Verwood.  These clinics are scheduled for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings commencing the 22nd of April through to early June.

Patients with a mobile phone registered with us will be sent an SMS text message with details of how to book an appointment online.  You will be contacted on your landline if you do not have a mobile telephone number registered.

Please wait to be contacted by the NHS if you're eligible.

For more information on this season’s eligibility criteria, please visit the PCN Community Vaccination page here>>

Image depicting Only Order What You Need campaign
9th Feb

Making a Repeat Prescription Request? Please Only Order What You Need!

Did you know that approximately 1.6 million medicine items are wasted unnecessarily in Dorset every year?  We are asking our patients for help to reduce this.

We want people to have the right medicine and care while reducing the amount of medicine waste. If you have enough medicine at home, there’s no need to order more every time. You will still be able to request your medicine again in the future.  

The good news is that you can help make a tremendous difference by only ordering what you need. 

Thank you to the many people who are already doing this.

Follow this link to discover more>>

Commujnity SWITCH and Crane Valley PCN logos
26th Jan

Community SWITCH - a Path to Improved Health and Well-being

At West Moors Village Surgery, we want to do all we can to help you with your well-being needs. 

What if together, we could do more for you?

Working with our colleagues in the Crane Valley Primary Care Network we offer a groundbreaking initiative designed to enhance local people's overall health and quality of life – Community SWITCH.

We understand that a patient's health and well-being extends beyond traditional medical care. Community SWITCH goes beyond the ordinary and empowering you with additional tools and opportunities to manage your health effectively.

Follow this link to discover more>>

a male receptionist answering a phone sat in front of a computer
13th Dec 2023

A new telephone system to improve patient access to our services

We are pleased to advise that we are installing a new and improved telephone system designed to improve the patient experience and enable West Moors Village Surgery to serve you better.  

The new telephone system, scheduled to go live on Tuesday, the 19th of December, will allow our team to handle high call volumes, ensuring our patients can access the service they need quickly and efficiently.  The new system is equipped to handle increased call traffic efficiently, minimising wait times and improving accessibility for all. 

Additionally, detailed call reports generated by the new system will give us valuable insights into call patterns, peak times, and service demand. This data will enable us to identify areas for improvement and refine our services.

While we are working with the telephone engineering team to install the new system with minimal disruption to our services, your patience and understanding will be much appreciated during the transition period.

Thank you.

a cartoon of a pharmacist coming out of a laptop screen
7th Dec 2023

Fake Lloyds Pharmacy Emails

A phishing email campaign is currently targeting people with fake Lloyds Pharmacy emails. The emails falsely claim that by signing up for LloydsDirect you can easily manage prescriptions and get free delivery.
 
These emails contain links designed to steal personal/financial information or install malware. The fraudsters have made the emails appear more genuine by including LloydsDirect/NHS logos and Trustpilot reviews.
 
However, these emails are fake. Do not click any links, provide info, or sign up through these emails. Double check directly with your pharmacy if unsure.
 
To learn more and stay updated on related scams, visit the official Lloyds Pharmacy customer service page: Suspicious Email/Spam Email (lloydspharmacy.com) How to stay safe online Get Safe Online | The UK's leading Online Safety Advice Resource
 
Key protections:
• Verify pharmacy emails before clicking links or providing info
• Go directly to your pharmacy's website rather than through links
• Check for spelling/formatting issues indicating a potential fake
• Keep device security protections updated to block malware
 
Stay vigilant against pharmacy-themed phishing campaigns trying to steal personal information or distribute malware. Verify legitimacy through official channels before engaging.
a person holding a smartphone, the NHS logo and the words Online access to GP health records.  Over 12 million patients withonline accounts now have full access to their new GP health record entries.  Over 2,700 practices now offer this access to their patients by default.
28th Oct 2023

Online access to GP Health Records 

Since November 2022 all patients in our network who are over 16 have been able to view notes and health records. This includes notes from GP surgery appointments, test results, medications, and letters we receive from hospitals. These can be viewed online via the NHS App, NHS website, SystmOnline or the Airmid app. If you do not want your record to be available online, please speak with the Reception or Patient Services team at your surgery. For more, please visit the Crane Valley PCN information web page here>>

COVID-19 Autumn Booster Eligibility
11th Sep 2023

Autumn COVID Booster Vaccination Update

The Crane Valley Primary Care Network has begun to invite patients to book their Autumn COVID-19 Booster vaccinations. If you’re eligible for a booster vaccine, please come forward as soon as you’re invited. 

Patients will be offered the same booking procedure as previous seasons, in that patients with a mobile phone registered with their practice will be sent an SMS text message with details of how to book an appointment online. If you do not have a mobile phone registered with us, you will be contacted by phone. 

Please don't contact us to ask when you will be offered your Autumn COVID-19 booster invite.   Crane Valley PCN are managing the bookings centrally and appointment slots are being offered in line with vaccine supplies allocated to our network.  Invitations are being offered on a phased basis over the coming weeks.  

For more information on the local Autumn COVID-19 Booster Vaccination Programme please visit the PCN Community Vaccination Information page by following this link>>
vials of coronavirus vaccine
1st Sep 2023

Autumn COVID booster vaccination arrangements

Following the recent decision by the DHSC to bring forward the COVID Booster vaccination programme, the Crane Valley Primary Care Network (PCN) programme plans are for housebound patients and residents in older adult care homes to be offered flu and COVID vaccinations from mid-September, which aligns with expected flu vaccination supplies.  The PCN Care Co-ordinators will contact residential care homes to offer appointments to those patients, while the GP practices in our network will contact their housebound patients directly.  

All other eligible groups will be offered appointments at drive-through COVID vaccination clinics to be held at the PCN Vaccination Centre on weekday evenings from week commencing Monday 11th September. 

The same booking procedure will apply as previous seasons, in that patients with a mobile phone registered with their practice will be sent an SMS text message with details of how to request an appointment using an online booking form.

The PCN is currently mobilising the necessary staff to support these clinic arrangements, and their website will be updated when these are finalised and appointments are available to request.  

Keep an eye on the Community Vaccination information page for the latest details>>

An image of a hospital in 1948, two nurses in uniform and a modern day operating theatre scene with surgeons performing an operation
5th Jul 2023

The NHS at 75

5 July 2023 marks 75 years of the National Health Service. Treating 1.3 million people a day in England, the NHS touches all our lives.  West Moors Village Surgery, along with the other GP Practices in our network are proud to be a small part supporting the people in our local community to obtain, regain and maintain a healthy quality of life. 

Read more about the NHS and how its met the health and wellbeing needs of successive generations>>

a young woman in the background laughing with an older man stood in the foreground.  the help and care logo and the words Dementia Coordinator Service
3rd Jul 2023

Dementia Coordinator Service

Many people living with Dementia feel that having support along their journey will maximise independent living and prevent a crisis.

The Dementia Coordinator Service, delivered by Help and Care, is committed to supporting people to live well with Dementia.

The service is available to everyone across Dorset, age 18 and over, including support for immediate carers and loved ones.

Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, the Memory Assessment Service will make a referral to a Dementia Coordinator at Dorset Healthcare.   However, Help and Care will accept self-referrals and referrals from GPs and other stakeholders as long as a diagnosis of Dementia is confirmed.

Help and Care work in partnership with Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust, NHS Dorset and Age UK, as an integral part of the Dementia Services Pathway for Dorset.

For more information, download and view this Help and Care leaflet or visit their website by following this link>> www.helpandcare.org.uk/services/dementia-coordinator-service

a cartoon image of a mother and baby, the NHS 75 logo and the words, since the measles vaccine was introduced in 1968 20 million infections have been avoided and 4,500 lives have been saved.
26th Apr 2023

This week is World Immunisation Week

World Immunisation week is the perfect reminder of the importance of vaccination against serious illnesses such as measles, mumps and rubella (MMR). 

Make sure your child is up to date on their vaccinations.  Visit our Children's Health web page for info about the routine vaccinations we offer.

We will contact you when your child is due for a vaccination.  But if you believe your child may have missed a vaccination, please get in touch to let us know.

Minuteful Kidney Test, an example of a Test Kit and mobile phone app and the words, Digital home kidney health testing service This practice is working with Healthy.io to improve screening for kidney disease for people living with diabetes and high blood pressure.
12th Apr 2023

Digital Home Kidney Health Testing Service

Coming soon for our diabetic patients and others who need to test their kidney function: At-home testing for early signs of kidney damage.

We are introducing the Minuteful Kidney service which allows people to carry out a urine test at home with a smart phone and a simple urine test kit, which will be sent to their home address. The test results go straight on their medical records via the mobile app, saving them and their GP time.

Patients who meet the criteria for the new service will receive an invitation from us via SMS text, offering them the service. The Minuteful Kidney service is securely provided by NHS Dorset partner, Healthy.io. People will have the opportunity to opt-in or out of this service. However, we encourage our patients to take up the offer because it enables a quicker follow-up on abnormal results and saves time for clinicians so they can spend more time on treatment.

For more information, visit the Minuteful Kidney web page on the Crane Valley Primary Care Network website by following this link>>

a male armed forces member walking hand in hand with a civilian female, the togetherall logo and the words mental health support for the UK Armed Forces and family members .  Safe, anonymouse, online community for mental health support
24th Mar 2023

NHS England partnership: Free access to Togetherall for Veteran Patients

Our veteran patients have free access to Togetherall - Togetherall is a safe anonymous online community where members can share what’s on their mind, take comfort reading the thoughts of others or browse the many resources available. 

Togetherall provides: 

  • A supportive online community – moderated by professionals at all times (BACP members or equivalent)
  • An anonymous space, free from stigma or judgement.
  • A safe place to talk at any time of the day or night.
  • A library of self-help materials, including structured online courses on topics such as managing depression, improving sleep and a ‘managing PTSD’ course, which has been specifically designed to support the Armed Forces.

The Togetherall service is free for veterans and can be accessed immediately through a computer or mobile device at www.togetherall.com

the NHS and UK Heath Security Agency logos and the words top up your immunity this spring
23rd Mar 2023

SPRING COVID VACCINATION BOOSTERS – Update

Crane Valley Primary Care Network staff have been working hard to finalise this Spring’s Booster Vaccination Programme arrangements. Our local programme will commence in early April, delivering up to 5,000 boosters in our area.

the nhs logo and the words finding bowel cancel early makes it easier to treat.  The nhs bowel screening kit detects signs of cancer before you notice anything is wrong
2nd Mar 2023

FINDING BOWEL CANCER EARLY MAKES IT EASIER TO TREAT

If you’re sent an NHS bowel cancer screening kit, put it by the loo. Don’t put it off.

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK. However, the number of people dying has fallen in recent decades, with earlier diagnosis being the key.  Detecting bowel cancer at the earliest stage makes you up to 9 times more likely to be successfully treated.
 
Everyone aged 60-74 who lives in England is automatically sent an NHS bowel cancer screening kit every 2 years. The programme is expanding to include those aged 50-59. This is happening gradually over the 4 years from 2021-2025 so you may be sent a kit before you are 60.
a person using a laptop computer
29th Jan 2023

Patient Feedback Request

We've set up a short survey to seek input from our patients on the upgrade and redesign of the Practice website. We are keen to improve our online presence, and seek input from our patients.  Let us know your views about our current website by taking a quick survey. The results will help us as we develop the new website to meet the needs of our patients and provide quick and easy access to the information needed to manage their health and well-being.

The link to complete the survey is>>
 
Thank you
Coronavirus
5th Jan 2023

Medical settings are a higher risk environment and will need to be subject to more control measures than other public facilities.

We are acting very cautiously and are maintaining:

  • Social distancing

  • Face coverings
  • PPE for healthcare staff

The delta variant is more transmissible and patients may come to the surgery when they are contagious.

It is our duty to do all we can to keep both our patients and our staff safe whilst we deliver our care to you.

 

Thank you.

picture of a virus
5th Jan 2023

Information for patients about Group A Strep and Scarlet Fever

There are currently high rates of Group A strep and scarlet fever in the UK. Scarlet fever, which is caused by the bacteria Group A streptococcus, is usually a mild illness but it is highly infectious. It is much more common in children than in adults; it is important that children with scarlet fever are seen by their GP so that they can be started on antibiotics. This is not only to reduce the chance of their infection becoming more severe but also to stop them spreading the infection to others, especially people at higher risk of severe infections such as the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

The rash of scarlet fever often begins with small spots on the body that then spread to the neck, arms and legs over the next 1-2 days. It is often ‘sand-paper’ like to touch but is not itchy.

Your child may also have a:

  • Sore throat/tonsillitis
  • Fever (temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above)
  • Painful, swollen glands in the neck
  • A red tongue (strawberry tongue)
 
 
There is also information about Group A Strep on the UK Health Security Agency website here>>