CLINICAL SERVICES

Adults' Immunisation

It is especially important that all gardeners are covered against tetanus. If you have never had a tetanus injection it is important for you to have a course of three injections to give you full immunity. Any woman who may be thinking of having children should consider having a blood test to check that she is immune to German measles (Rubella) BEFORE she becomes pregnant. If you have any questions about vaccinations it is better to ask rather than just to hope you are protected.

Minor Surgery

For your convenience, minor operations (eg removal of skin growths and toenails) are done at the surgery. Your doctor will make the initial diagnosis and arrange a suitable time to operate. Please note that all patients will have to sign a consent form; for legal reasons, anybody under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Health Promotion

We encourage all our patients to share responsibility for their health, both in preventing disease and in treating existing diseases. Prevention really is better than cure. Many of the most serious diseases can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle and without the need for drugs. Please feel free to discuss general health and your lifestyle and ask for advice.

Diabetes

All our diabetic patients, young and old, are invited to have a twice-yearly check-up (more often if necessary) with one of our specially trained practice nurses. Dietary and general advice is given and special tests are organised as necessary. If problems arise, patients will be referred back to their doctor.

Asthma

Increasing numbers of people of all ages are suffering from asthma. It varies in severity and can be fatal. Your doctor will make the initial diagnosis, arrange tests and explain your treatment. Our specially trained practice nurse will then ensure that the treatment is effective, by checking inhaler techniques and measuring lung function regularly, referring to your doctor if necessary. There is now a large range of effective modern treatments that should enable all asthma patients to lead a normal life.

Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

High blood pressure can, in the long term, increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Reducing blood pressure can reduce these risks. Treatment does not always require tablets. All adults are advised to have their blood pressure checked at least every three years. You don't necessarily need to see a doctor or nurse for this. In fact you can do it yourself by using our BP monitor in the waiting area. Our receptionists would be happy to explain how this is done - just ask!

New Patient Health Check

A general health check is offered to all new patients joining the practice. These checks are run by our practice nurse on behalf of the doctors. The nurse will assess your current state of health by checking your height, weight, blood pressure and testing your urine. (Please bring a sample with you.)

Wart Clinic

A wart clinic is usually held on the last Thursday in the month by appointment only. Patients must have been advised by a doctor to attend this clinic. If you have not seen a doctor regarding the wart/verruca you will not be treated.

Phlebotomy (Blood Test)

These tests are done at any one of three sites:

• Spinney Brook - Tuesday and Friday mornings between 8.30 and 11.15am by appointment.

• Woodford - Wednesday mornings by appointment.

• Irthlingborough (Nene Park Outpatients Clinic) - Daily between 8.00am and 3.30pm. You do not need to make an appointment as long as your doctor has requested that you have tests done.

Child Health Surveillance Services

Our doctors are trained to assess children to see that they are growing and developing normally.

Non-NHS Services

Certain services such as private sick notes, insurance claim forms, some travel immunisations, passport applications and some medical examinations are not covered by the NHS. Charges are made in line with the BMA's recommendations.

Health Abroad

The practice nurse will be pleased to offer advice on general health matters for patients who intend to travel abroad. Anyone planning holidays abroad should check with us at least two months before they are due to travel so that we can make sure that any necessary vaccinations are completed in time. Information is available for recommended vaccinations, all of which can be arranged at the surgery (including Yellow Fever).

Please note that not all vaccinations are available on the NHS. There will be a charge for some vaccinations and anti-malarials. Please ask the practice nurse for details.