New Advanced Nurse Practitioners
We are delighted to be able to welcome Anna Daws and Colette Webster as Advanced Nurse Practitioners to our expanding clinical team at Danebridge.
Working alongside our GPs, Advanced Nurse Practitioners are Registered Nurses who have undertaken additional training and academic qualifications to be able to examine, assess, make diagnoses, treat, prescribe and make referrals for patients who present with undiagnosed / undifferentiated problems.
As Advanced Nurse Practitioners, Anna and Colette’s role includes first contact consultations, which includes, but is not limited to: health matters that the patient feels has to be seen today such as acute illnesses like coughs, colds, sore throats, minor injuries, aches/pains.
999 Service Launched in British Sign Language
An official 999 service has now been launched in British Sign Language.
Using a dedicated smartphone APP or the 999 BSL website, callers will be connected to a 999 call handler via a BSL interpreter.
The service can be accessed at 999bsl.co.uk – you can also download the iOS or Android app there.
Have you got the NHS App?
The NHS App is a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services on your smartphone or tablet. Account verification is done centrally and you don’t need a password from your GP surgery.
You can now use the app to show your Covid vaccination status.
You can use the NHS App to:
- get advice about coronavirus – get information about coronavirus and find out what to do if you think you have it.
- order repeat prescriptions – see your available medicines, request a new repeat prescription and choose a pharmacy for your prescriptions to be sent to.
- book appointments – search for, book and cancel appointments at your GP surgery. See details of your upcoming and past appointments.
- get health advice – search trusted NHS information and advice on hundreds of conditions and treatments. You can also answer questions to get instant advice and medical help near you.
- view your health record – securely access your GP health record to see information like your allergies and your current and past medicines. If your GP surgery has given you access to your detailed medical record, you can also see information like test results and details of your consultations.
- register to be an organ donor – choose to donate some or all your organs and check your registered decision.
- find out how the NHS uses your data – choose if data from your health records is shared for research and planning.
Download the app now from the App Store or Google Play, or find out more information at NHS App – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Loneliness Awareness Week
This week is Loneliness Awareness Week, the event happens annually and is hosted by Marmalade Trust.
The campaign aims to reduce the stigma around loneliness and encourage people to talk more openly about it. The campaign aims to reach 18-24 year old’s, we know that young people feel more confident and motivated to take action to help other people who feel lonely rather than doing things to help themselves.
However, we know that loneliness is an issue that can affect us all, young or old, at any point in our lives.
This week, reach out to others, check in on friends and family, help someone who may be feeling lonely, small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Serious Shortage Protocol for HRT gels
The NHSBSA have released new Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) for HRT products.
The SSPs apply to Oestrogel pump gel, Sandrena 0.5mg and 1mg gel sachets and Lenzetto spray.
Pharmacies are now allowed to switch patients to patches if they are unable to obtain a supply of the gels.
Pharmacies are also allowed to restrict the quantities to 3 months’ supply without contacting the prescriber.
Local pharmacies have been contacted to ensure they are aware of the SSPs.
Please note that you do not need to contact your GP, your Pharmacist will be able to look into this for you.
Changes to how you book your blood test
From April 1st, the Phlebotomy Service at Northwich Victoria Infirmary / Leighton Hospital changed their booking procedure for blood test appointments. There is no walk in service available.
We also offer a phlebotomy service at Danebridge 8.30am – 1pm Monday – Friday, please ring the practice to book your appointment.
To book with Northwich Victoria infirmary/Leighton hospital you will no longer be able to book via telephone. There is now a new online system which will allow patients to easily book an appointment at their preferred location (link below for convenience)
Covid Spring Booster
- Spring booster COVID-19 vaccination appointments are available in Cheshire now for: People aged 75+, residents of care homes for older adults and people aged 12+ who have a weakened immune system.
- If eligible, the quickest and easiest way to arrange a Spring booster vaccination is online via the National Booking Service (or by calling 119).
- In line with national guidance, Spring booster vaccinations are predominantly being administered in pharmacies. There is no need to contact your GP practice.
- Everyone who is eligible will receive a national letter from the NHS over the Spring and early Summer inviting them for a top-up.
- Locally, eligible residents who are able to attend a vaccination centre – but live in areas not covered by a GP-led site – will receive a further letter from the local NHS to outline their local vaccination options.
More information about Cheshire’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme – including sites offering walk-in Spring booster vaccinations – is available here
