Latest News
- updates fromJULY/AUGUST newsletter:
new
Jackie Forsythe
RIP 5.5.10
To Doctors, Staff and Patients
Dear All
We would like to thank you for your kind expressions of sympathy, the flowers and donations to the hospice that were made following the tragic loss of Jackie.
This has been a devastating time for us, we miss her terribly, but your kindness and support has helped us through this difficult period and has been a great comfort.
Jackie loved working at Woodlands and derived great satisfaction from her job, she was always pleased to help people and make a difference. She spoke often of her friendship with her colleagues and enjoyed your social events that made it more than ‘just a job’.
Once again our grateful thanks for all your comfort, support and generosity, Jackie will live in our hearts forever.
John, Jessica and Sarah Forsythe
new
Patient Survey
http://results.gp-patient.co.uk/report
Thank you for rating us so highly. We continue to aim to provide a quality service to you. We note that 17% of responders said that internet booking is your preferred route and so we encourage more of you to use this facility. Ask at the surgery if you do not already have a log-in to use this service. You are able to book ahead to see your GP at this practice with no restriction for routine appointments and we hope you will continue to be able to access both GPs and nurses when you need us.
Please be aware that when you initially sign up for internet services, you will need to come in person with proof of identity such as photocard driving licence or passport.
new
Keeping you cool
We hope that patients will feel more comfortable in our waiting areas now that our long awaited window blinds have been fitted.
We should all feel the benefit of the shade from the sun over the summer months
new
Help for young people in abusive relationships
Relationships don’t have to be violent to be classed as abusive. Any type of behaviour or language that is used to intimidate, frighten or control someone else can describe an abusive relationship, including emotional, sexual and verbal abuse.
You can be in an abusive relationship whether you are male or female although most cases of violence at home involve women or children. Young people who are dating or going out with someone can also be a victim of an abusive relationship. You might be going out with someone who makes you feel small around their friends, or an older relative might be causing you physical harm.
If you are in an abusive relationship it is important to talk to someone you trust like a friend or relative. Some schools and colleges have on-site advisors.
Remember that you are not alone; many people have been involved in abusive relationships and managed to get out of them. Also it is important to remember that you are not to blame for someone else’s behaviour. You may think that you have done something wrong to upset them and cause them to abuse you. Whatever you feel you may have done, there is no excuse for constant insults and threats of violence.
For more information log on to: www.direct.gov.uk/en/youngpeople/HealthAndRelationships/
new
Comings and goings:
We wish a fond farewell to Dr Alex Andrews, and Dr Elina Arrifin who will be leaving the practice at the beginning of August after being working with Drs Vanessa Whillier and Dr Sissy Frank for a period of four months. We wish them well for the future.
We welcome Dr Chandra Murugesan and Dr Raman Jeyarah, GP Registrars who will be joining the practice at the beginning of August and working with Dr David Whillier and Dr Vanessa Whillier respectively.
We also give a warm welcome to Juliet Lowe who has joined our reception team and will be working on Monday mornings.
new
Made redundant? Don’t panic..
Redundancy is happening to all kinds of people in all kinds of jobs. It’s not your fault and you are not alone.
-Once the initial shock has worn off it is important to know what your entitlements are and it is a good idea to go to your trade union or professional body for advice.
-It is important to plan for the months ahead. Start looking at your redundancy payment, savings and other income you may have. Find out what state benefits you are entitled to and work out a budget for the next three months.
-You will need commitment, preparation and a bit of luck to get a job, so try to help yourself by looking for work everywhere you can and send out your updated CV. If you get an interview, take the time to prepare for it properly.
-You might not find a job immediately in these troubled times. That is not your fault, so try not to dwell on this. Focus on your next steps instead.
In the meantime, maybe think about..
-taking up a new evening class or hobby
-taking regular exercise to raise your mood
-getting out and about with family or friends
-doing some gardening
-eat more healthily and drink plenty of water to help your mood
-Alcohol can have unwanted effects and can actually raise anxiety levels
new
SUPPORTING YOU BACK TO WORK
:helping people on incapacity and health related benefit find long term employment.
Sometimes the idea of returning to work following a period of ill health can seem very unsettling. Employment Solutions have a database of employers with a wide range of vacancies which may suit you and get you a job you really want while providing some necessary advice and support. To find out more call FREE on 0800 783 1144.
: Wellbeing at Work service, funded by DWP
If you are experiencing stress, anxiety and/or depression, MCCH are there to help. This free service is accessible to people living in and around the Maidstone and Weald Area and is for people both in work and signed off. Referrals can be made by your GP, employer, or you can self-refer by contacting us on 01622 688003, or e-mailing: compasshouse@mcch.org.uk
Further details available from website: www.mcch.co.uk
Anxiety and Depression Self Help Groups
at Woodlands Health Centre
Facilitated by Maidstone MIND, a registered charity
These are being held every Monday
2.30 p.m. – 4.00 p.m.
If you wish to attend please let us know by telephoning the surgery or asking at reception so that we can book you a place.
To get the most out of the group you would need to be able to commit to attending every week.
www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk
This website provided by NHS (Scotland) gives travel information for people travelling abroad from the UK.
Remember that to discuss your particular needs with the Practice Nurse, you will need to complete a Travel Risk Assessment form (available at the surgery) and book an appointment with the nurse ideally at least 8 weeks before your departure date.
Do you use medical needles? Time to get to the point..
Medical supplies such as needles, syringes, injection pens, lancets, injection vials and clippers are all classified as ‘sharps’ and must be disposed of in a sharps box. Many reasons for sharps to be used at home include: diabetics using insulin or checking their glucose levels using a lancet; kidney failure patients undertaking dialysis at home and also cancer patients undertaking treatment at home.
Disposing of used sharps incorrectly could cause injury or harm to yourself and others, especially to staff who collect, sort and treat waste.
You should use a sharps box which is specifically designed and of rigid construction; it should be kept out of the way of children and it should be permanently locked shut once it is full up to the line.
Please speak to one of the secretaries at the health centre to arrange for a letter to the Council advising them that you need a clinical waste collection.Birthday checks
It has been a year since we changed our system for managing the care of patients with chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes. The change saw us sending letters to patients inviting them to attend for their ‘birthday check’.
We are hoping that people will now automatically make an appointment for the month of their birthday without waiting for a letter to prompt them to do so, therefore, we will not be sending out letters routinely.
Birthday checks
It has been a year since we changed our system for managing the care of patients with chronic diseases such as asthma and diabetes. The change saw us sending letters to patients inviting them to attend for their ‘birthday check’.
We are hoping that people will now automatically make an appointment for the month of their birthday without waiting for a letter to prompt them to do so, therefore, we will not be sending out letters routinely.
Are you fully protected against MUMPS?
There has been an increase in Mumps in the Kent and Medway area and we would encourage all our patients who are in their late teens or early twenties to ensure that they have had 2 doses of the MMR so that they are fully protected.
Mumps is an acute viral illness that causes fever, headache and swollen glands. It is spread from person to person by coughs and sneezes and also by direct contact through saliva. Mumps can cause viral meningitis which is a very unpleasant condition. Painful complications of mumps can cause inflammation of the ovaries or testicles and in rarer cases, the pancreas.
If you are unsure whether you are fully protected against Mumps we can check up for you.
Home Library Service
A FREE service from your local library for people of any age who are housebound, on long or short term sick or a carer who is unable to get to their local library.
There will be an initial visit from a volunteer to establish the types of book you are interested in and then they will go to the library and choose books on your behalf. You are allowed up to 20 items including a couple of DVDs and CDs on a 4 week loan. The library also has large print and talking books for those with eyesight problems.
There are several ways to sign up to this option:
Phone 01892 832006
E-mail: paddockwoodlibrary@kent.gov.uk
Website: www.kent.gov.uk/libs
Statement of Fitness for Work–the fit note explained
The fit note is the new form which your doctor will give you when your health affects your ability to work. It replaces the sick note.
The main difference is that the fit note allows your doctor to advise you on how you may be able to return to work.
Work can be an important part of your recovery.
You can find more details online at www.dwp.gov.uk/fitnote
Booking appointments online
We have been made aware that there has been a problem with availability of appointments to book online. With support from Emis we are now in a position to reconfigure the system so that more appointments will start becoming available to book online.
Thank you for your patience and continued support.
New Parents Group
Come and meet other new parents, chat, share ideas and get information from the health visiting team at Paddock Wood Children’s Centre, Wesley Centre, Commercial Road, Paddock Wood – every Thursday starting 11th March
10.30 a.m. – 11.30 a.m.0-4 months
11.30 a.m. - 12.30 p.m.4 months – 1 year
PADDOCK WOOD YOUTH
www.paddockwoodtc.kentparishes.gov.uk
www.facebook.com/YouthPaddockWood
An exciting new group for young people in Paddock Wood who are in Years 6-13.
There will be a homework café , creative workshops, a snack bar and a place to meet your friends.
Homework Café and your place to meet is @ Mascalls Youth and Community Centre:
3PM – 6PM on Mondays 1st, 15th and 29th March 2010.
Workshops and a place to meet every Thursday 6PM – 8PM
@ The Wesley Centre, Commercial Road
Tunbridge Wells Domestic Abuse Helpline
Bruises don’t only appear on the outside- it’s the ones on the inside that can hurt the most.
Domestic Abuse is not just a physical thing – words and behaviour hurt too.
Those manning the Helpline understand that.
Do you want to talk to someone about what is happening to you, a friend or family member?
You are not on your own…phone the Helpline.
Call the Tunbridge Wells Domestic Abuse Helpline on: 01892 570538
Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10AM-2PM
Chlamydia Self Testing
Chlamydia is the most commonly diagnosed sexually transmitted infection in England that spreads through unprotected sex. Most people who have it will have no symptoms, and without a test will probably not be aware that anything is wrong with them or their sexual partner. Left untreated, Chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease which can lead to infertility and long term pelvic pain.
If you are sexually active and under 25 years old you should be tested for Chlamydia annually; the tests are painless and easy and quick to do.
Self testing kits are available from the health centre – please ask.
Strengthening community bonds
We are very pleased that the artwork from Mascalls School is now
displayed in the health centre; the 3D artwork is on a medical theme the
and is a very welcome and eye catching addition that is already been
admired and appreciated by patients and staff alike.
The following students have their artwork on display here:
Lewis Bailey
Jonathan Bartlett
Joe Clark
Lewis Dunn
Callum Geddes
James Skinner
Laurence Wise
Josh Wozny
With many thanks to the Mascalls School Art Department and students.
Getting help for alcohol problems…
Alcoholics Anonymous works with doctors to help heavy drinkers and declared alcoholics to recover from alcoholism:
Their maintenance programme offers continuing care is available as long as the individual wishes to stay.
Has a programme of recovery that is recognised worldwide.
Can be used for patients who have not stopped drinking – yet.
Is free
Provides friendship and understanding for patients who have frequently lost the love and support of family and friends.
Is gaining knowledge and support about help and support required for younger member.
Helpline: 0845 7697 555
Website: www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk
Kenward Trust
If you, or someone you know is suffering from alcohol problems, then for confidential help and advice contact your Local Alcohol Clinic.
01732 370413 for Local Alcohol Clinics
E-mail enquiry@wealdencentre.org.uk
Mental Health: putting an end to stigma
There are lots of myths surrounding mental illness and maybe because of this you don’t feel that you know enough to be of help….but you don’t have to be an expert on mental health to be a friend.
Stigma and discrimination prevents many people with mental health problems from doing everyday things like going out and having normal relationships with friends and family.
As mental health problems affect 1 in 4 people, you probably know someone with a mental health problem – a friend, family member or colleague. There are ways in which you could support them:
oBe there to talk and listen
oPeople with mental health problems worry about the reaction they will get…so if someone talks to you about their problem don’t brush it off – instead acknowledge their problem and let them know you are there for them.
oMake time to stay in touch – carry on with what you normally do.
oAsk the person how you can help.
oRemember that people don’t want to be defined by their problem – remember that this is just one part of them.
oThink about the words you use; words like nutter, crazy and psycho can hurt.
oYou might feel uncomfortable about mental health problems as some of the myths can be frightening. Make sure you’ve got the facts – visit the website:www.time-to-change.org.uk
NHS life checks
NHS LifeCheck is an online health service that will help you assess your own and your child’s health and well-being.
All you need to do is answer a set of simple questions about your lifestyle and NHS LifeCheck will give you confidential results and advice.
Whatever you want to change, NHS LifeCheck will point you in the right direction
There are NHS LifeChecks for people at different life stages:
- Baby Life Checks – for parents of babies aged 5 – 8 months
- Teen Life checks – for young people aged 12 – 15 years
- Mid-life Life checks – for people aged 45 – 60 years
NHS LifeCheck services have been developed by the Department of Health in consultation with members of the public and health experts.
Log onto: www.nhs.uk/lifecheck
The role of the Community Matron
People with a serious long term condition or a complex range of conditions are being offered the chance of support from a community matron – a senior nurse who will not only provide your nursing care but will plan and co-ordinate ways of meeting all your health and social needs.
Above all, your community matron is someone who is there for you and will make sure your views are heard, so you can feel in control when decisions are being taken about your health, your well being and your life. As well as providing your nursing care, they will act as your ‘case manager’ – the single point for care, support or advice; they will make sure your care is designed around your needs and that your views are listened to.
Those eligible for a community matron are typically those people who have had several emergency hospital admissions or are at risk or having to move from their own home into a nursing home because of their condition. Speak to your doctor for advice on whether you can get a community matron.
Is the credit crunch dragging you down? Help is at hand:
CREDIT CRUNCH STRESSLINE on 0300 123 2000
8 AM to 10 PM, 7 days a week
Money problems and job insecurity can have a negative affect on your health, the NHS Credit Crunch Stressline is manned by health advisors who are trained to help. They will:
•Listen to you
•Offer you useful information you can trust
•Offer practical advice to guide you through your crisis
•Help you get back in control of your life Sept/Oct 09
Now arrived- Message in a Bottle (MIAB)
The Message in a Bottle scheme is a simple idea designed to encourage people to keep their personal and medical details on a standard form and in a common location - the fridge. This is where the emergency services expect to find it – they will know its there because of 2 stickers. One is fixed on the inside of the front door or main entrance, the other on the fridge door. It can save vital time, and really help the emergency services.
Whilst focused on the more vulnerable people in our community, anyone can have an accident at home, so this scheme can benefit anyone, including you.
The bottles, including the form and stickers are free and will be available from local places.
Whilst this is a national scheme, locally it will be supported by Paddock Wood & District Lions Club. They launched the scheme in Staplehurst approaching a year ago now, and it has been very successful with over 200 bottles distributed.
The Lions Club hope to launch the scheme within the next few months in all the other areas it covers, namely Paddock Wood, Brenchley, Matfield, Horsmonden, Yalding, Collier Street and East Peckham.
Sept/Oct 09
NHS CHOICES
www.nhs.uk
This online service offers you the opportunity to make the most of your health; it is a very interesting and informative site.
The site enables you to find directories of local services as well as profiles of these together with information that helps you compare hospitals using the latest facts and figures.
There are celebrity interviews, top tips and real life stories about how to live a healthier life in the ‘Live well’ section. You will also find self assessment tools on a variety of subjects from ‘parenting self assessment’ and ‘healthy weight calculator’ to ‘workplace stress test’.
You can also search through the ‘Health A-Z’ for all you need to know on more than 700 conditions and treatments.
Enjoy navigating this varied and useful website!
Sept/Oct 09
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR GP CONSULTATION Aug 09
oBe prepared: Thinking ahead may save you having to come back; for example women with gynaecological problems should avoid appointments coinciding with their periods.
oBe on time – or even a few minutes early: Cutting it fine will add to your tension levels which is not a good idea if you are having your blood pressure checked. Having time to spare will also give you time to think through what you want to say/ask.
oTake someone with you: This is helpful if you are getting important test results and are concerned that you will not be able to take everything in. It is also helpful if you suffer from memory problems or ‘funny turns’.
oBe upfront with your doctor: Tell your doctor what you are thinking – your doctor may not agree with you, but this approach gives you both time to talk it through properly.
oKnow your history: Most diagnostic clues are found in the information you give to your doctor; for example if you have pain, note how long it has been going on, what it feels like etc.
oDon’t be baffled by medical jargon: If you understand your diagnosis or treatment you will feel more confident about what is happening, so if unsure ask for the information in plain English!
oAsk for written confirmation: It is difficult to remember information given during consultation so ask for a patient leaflet or helpful website of your condition.
oDon’t be afraid to exploit technology: for example a photo of an intermittent rash may be helpful to your doctor!
oMake the most of your time with your doctor: Killing two birds with one stone is an efficient use of time – but don’t produce a shopping list of problems that you want your doctor to deal with in one ten minute consultation—book a double appointment if you have many concerns so that you can deal with each one thoughtfully.
SUGGESTIONS… Aug 09
We have a variety of means by which patients can pass on their suggestions and comments to us: there is a suggestion box in the main waiting are together with paper on pen in which to write comments.
Linda Ladbrooke also welcomes comments on this newsletter and internet users can comment on our website by using the feedback form on the site.
Helping us to help you…
As we are a large Practice, naturally our reception staff can get very busy dealing with patients coming for their appointments or calling or phoning in to make appointments. To make things easier for yourself - instead of queuing up at the reception desk - you could use the touch screens in the waiting room to book in to show that you have arrived for your appointment. The touch screens are easy to use – if you are unsure, one of our staff will be happy to help you.
We have had very positive feedback from patients who have registered for our online services as this means that they are able to make or check on an appointment with their doctor, or request any medications that they have on repeat from home/work. If you are interested in registering for this service you will need to come into the health centre and bring a form of identification such as a photocard driving licence or passport with you, we can then produce a registration letter with your unique details which will enable you to log onto the system through our website giving you access to the online services that we offer.
As always, we are very interested to receive your feedback on the services we offer.
Financial difficulties?
Don’t let your health pay the price …seek advice to help you through
Adela Austin, Counsellor is aware that particularly in the current economic climate, many people are having to deal with money worries and debt that can adversely affect both their physical and mental wellbeing; in an effort to combat this she has compiled information to help people seek appropriate advice and support.
Information sheets are available in the waiting rooms.
Suspect a stroke? Act FAST.
Call 999
Facial weakness
Can the person smile? Has their
mouth or eye dropped?
Arm weakness
Can the person raise both arms?
Speech problems
Can the person speak clearly and
understand what you say?
Time to call 999
Stroke is a medical emergency
By calling 999 early treatment can be given which can prevent further brain damage
Alcohol….knowing your limits
Many people like to take a little time out now that then to socialise and have a drink or two; however it is not difficult to end up drinking more than you intended. Regularly drinking more than the recommended daily amount of units has its risks.
Some ways to find the balance are to:
•Decide how many units you want to drink in an evening and stick to it.
•Reduce your units by choosing drinks that are not so strong.
•Avoid “top ups” so you can keep track of your units.
•Eat before you go out and while you are drinking
•Drink water before you go out. Then drink either water or a soft drink between each alcoholic drink.
•If you think you may be drinking too much, then set aside specific days in the week when you don’t drink.
•Don’t drink in rounds as you will tend to drink more.
•Try not to go out too often with friends who drink regularly.
•If you spend all your money on drink, take out less cash and leave your credit cards at home.
•Before you go out, think about how you are going to get home and make sure that you don’t drink and drive.
If you are concerned whether your drinking fits into a healthy lifestyle, you can log onto www.nhs.uk/units to do a test to help you decide whether you need to make any changes, and what you could do to cut down if necessary.
ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE ABROAD
If you are travelling to another country in the European Economic Area (EEA) for either leisure or business, you will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access state provided healthcare that may become necessary during your visit. The treatment you receive will be at a reduced cost, or sometimes even for free. However it is important that you still take out travel insurance as the EHIC does not cover all healthcare costs, such as the journey back to the UK should you need treatment there. Anyone who has a card already should remember to keep an eye on the expiry date so that they can renew it in good time.
For more information, including advice for au pairs, nannies, people in the armed forces and students studying abroad; or to get an EHIC (which is free) either apply online at :
www.dh.gov.uk/travellers or you can phone the EHIC applications line on 0845 606 2030.
Advice line for families with young children
Monday – Friday
9.30 a.m. – 12 noon
Telephone: 01892 839428
This new telephone service which started at the end of last month will be answered by a health visitor who can provide advice for parents/guardians regarding aspects of child care.
It would be helpful if you could feedback any comments that you have on this service.
Hepatitis B for occupational purposes
Hepatitis B immunisation for occupational purposes is usually provided via your university/employment occupational health provider. Hepatitis B blood tests that are required for occupational purposes are no longer available from local NHS services; the simplest route is via your occupational health provider.
If you are required to make private arrangements for your vaccination or blood tests, please note that this surgery does not provide Hepatitis B vaccination or blood testing as a private service.
Nov/Dec 2007
Advice for Electric Scooter and Wheelchair Users
It is great that so many people with mobility problems are now able to benefit from the independence that these scooters give them.
There is a ‘Get Wise’ Highway Code specifically for users giving advice on choosing and maintaining your vehicle; this also gives sensible guidelines for the safety of both user and pedestrians. It is worth remembering that pedestrians always have right of way.
As the health centre is used by patients – from children to the elderly, those with disabilities, sight or hearing problems –and to reduce potential risk, we do not allow the scooters into the building. However, if you feel that not being able to bring your motorised scooter into the building leads to difficulties with accessing our services, then you should speak to your GP or a member of staff so that your individual circumstances can be considered.