Are your child’s vaccines up to date?

Some important information from the NHS to help you stay well
this winter.

The flu vaccine helps protect against flu, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness. It’s offered on the NHS every year in autumn or early winter to people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds. It usually gets better by itself, but it can be serious for some babies and older adults. A vaccine is available for those at risk from 1 September.

We have been following the outcome of the British Medical Association (BMA) vote in favour of industrial action by GPs. Although we agree with the issue they are campaigning for, at this stage we do not feel that taking industrial action is the correct course of action. The Vale Medical Centre will continue with business as usual.

If you’re pregnant getting vaccinated gives your child the best protection against whooping cough. Getting vaccinated is quick and easy. Speak to your midwife or contact your GP practice.

Find your little big thing for your mental health

Going to your local pharmacy offers an easy and convenient way to get clinical advice on minor health concerns, and now community pharmacies can offer treatment for seven common conditions without patients needing to see a GP.

The NHS App is a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services and information on your smartphone or tablet. Millions of people are already using the NHS App to manage their health the easy way from the comfort of their homes.

There are little things we can all do to lift our mood or ease our anxiety – we need to find what works for us.

Did you know that, in addition to your GP, there are other health professionals in general practice who can help you get the right care?

The eligibility for a free NHS Shingles vaccine is changed from the 1st of September 2023

From 30th August 2023 we are changing the way appointments are booked. You no longer need to call the practice to book.

Measles is an infection that spreads very easily and can cause serious problems in some people. Having the MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent it.

If you have a low income, you may be able to get help with NHS costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS)

If you’ve been invited for cervical screening, we hope you’ll choose to have it.

The bowel cancer screening kit can save your life.

Act F.A.S.T. Call 999 if you see any single one of the signs of a stroke.

If something in your body doesn’t feel right, don’t carry the worry of cancer with you.

The NHS 111 online service can assess and direct people to the most appropriate local service, including urgent treatment centres, GP practices, and consultations with a pharmacist.

You may have seen in the news and online stories about Group A Strep.

If your child is still due the polio booster vaccine please do book an appointment with the Practice Nurse.

The best start for you and your baby.

Looking after your mental health. There are little things we can all do to help look after our mental health. Having good mental health helps us relax more, achieve more and enjoy our lives more.

If something in your body doesn’t feel right, talk to your doctor. Most people who go for tests find out it’s not cancer.

Big changes are taking place across the health and care system.  What does it mean?

Your GP, nurse or pharmacist will not generally give you a prescription for over the counter medicines for a range of minor health concerns. Instead, over the counter medicines are available to buy in a pharmacy or supermarket in your local community.

Fancy a cuppa? Sometimes reaching out to someone with as little as three words can make a big difference.

When you think you need A&E, contact NHS 111 by phone or online. NHS 111 is free and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You answer questions about your symptoms on the website, or by speaking to a fully trained adviser on the phone.

Register for the Text Reminder Service You can now register to receive information by text message on your phone regarding

Please book an appointment with the Health Care Assistant.

We all know that the NHS can be busy, but everyone can benefit by following the expert advice of NHS staff to

Repeat Prescriptions Access a list of your repeat medication and request a repeat prescription. Minimise your trips to the Practice