If you are over the age of 65 we aim to keep you as well as possible.
If you have a condition that requires a regular review, eg COPD, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, you may already know that we offer you a health check for this at least once a year. You will receive a reminder letter when your health check is due and this will tell you if you need to get blood tests done before you are seen or if you need to bring a sample of urine with you. We have nurses trained to carry out most of these health checks and the nurse will advise you on how to keep well and to manage your condition. It is important that you attend your health checks when requested to do so as this should help you to avoid needing urgent care. The nurse will also tell you when she would next like to see you.
If you are too ill to attend the surgery our district nurses or community matron can visit you at home to help and advise you. They will try to keep you as well as possible and can advise on how to deal with your condition if it starts to get worse. We know how important it is to keep you out of hospital if we can. Please let us know at the surgery if you are housebound.
All patients over the age of 65 are entitled to a free flu vaccination and this is particularly important if you have any health conditions. You can usually book an appointment for this from the end of September onwards.
Of course, if you are worried about your condition at any time, you may book to see the nurse who you normally see. It is not normally necessary to see a doctor unless the nurse advises this.