News from Lambourn Surgery – January 2020
The Lambourn Surgery Patient Participation Group (PPG) is a group of registered patients who are charged with working together with the practice to help them provide services that meet the needs of the patient population.
We are delighted that our communications initiative appears to have been well received. This news briefing is now included in print publications, community websites and email newsletters throughout the valley. We also have a regular slot on 4LEGS Radio. If you know of any communications medium that would like to include surgery news then please contact the PPG as below. In particular we would like to reach out to those who do not have computer access, so we are happy to provide printed copies for noticeboards, community areas etc.
As reported last month Dr Wanless and Dr Marriage have joined the practice and Dr Wallage has now left. As there have been a couple of changes to our doctors in recent months some patients will now have a different doctor who is accountable for their care. This does not prevent you from requesting a doctor of your choice when you make an appointment. If you would like to know which doctors list you are allocated to please contact the surgery via the contact form on the surgery website. www.lambournsurgery.co.uk
We are now well into the Flu season. Nationally the uptake of the Flu vaccination has been falling, increasing the risk of the spread of the virus. Locally 27% of over 65s and 55% of other eligible adults remain unvaccinated. The uptake amongst pregnant women and those with diabetes is low this year. The national supply issues of the vaccine are now resolved. The vaccination is free and recommended yearly for those most at risk from flu.
This includes
• children aged 2 to 9 years old*
• pregnant women
• anyone living with a long-term medical condition
• everyone aged 65 and over
• people with caring responsibilities
If you fall into any of the above groups please contact the surgery as soon as possible to book your vaccination on 01488-72299.
*Please note that school aged children will receive their vaccination at school, only requests for 2-3 year olds need to contact the surgery.
For more information please visit: www.nhs.uk/flujab
Missed Appointments continue to be a cause for concern for our medical team. On average 55 Doctor appointments and 45 Nurse appointments are missed each month. The cost of such lost time is often mentioned in the press but the key implication is the lost opportunity for others requiring appointments. Please help to reduce the number of missed appointments at Lambourn Surgery by letting them know if your appointment is no longer needed. Did you know that you can get text reminders sent to your phone for appointments at Lambourn Surgery? You can sign up for this service by completing a form at reception or online at www.lambournsurgery.co.uk/navigator/change-of-personal-details/. If you are a carer or family member you can receive these reminders on behalf of someone who does not have or is unable to use a mobile phone, please contact reception. The surgery will need the patient’s written consent
If you have any ideas for improving communications or other aspects of the Lambourn Surgery service please let us know. You can contact the PPG via email; ppgchairpersonlambourn@gmail.com or in writing via the surgery office addressed to the Chairman of the PPG.
