PRACTICE NEWSLETTER AUTUMN 2006

Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire Results

Many thanks to all those patients who took the time to fill in the questionnaires.

Overall the results were very positive.

The doctors all had a resounding vote of appreciation from you, on all aspects of consultations, the highest scores on:

Confidence in the doctors ability

Respect shown to you by the doctor

Ability of the doctor to listen to your concerns

Many more patients now contact us by telephone and seem to value the dedicated time to speak to doctors (12 - 12.30 in the mornings and 2.30 - 3pm in the afternoon).

Our appointment system too was very much appreciated, especially by those of you who have changed surgeries and have horror stories to tell. In fact the only negative findings were about the building and here we recognise that we are desperately in need of premises that are suitable for 21st century healthcare.

In the meantime we will install air conditioning in the waiting room, but unfortunately it is not feasible to install these units in the corridor.

A number of patients seemed to be unaware that we offer an early morning surgery from 8.30am specifically for patients who are working.

So once again thank you for taking part. The Welsh Assembly Goverment needs us to do a further survey in September, we hope we can count on your help.

Flu Jabs

The flu jabs are expected mid October. Remember flu is not just a heavy cold, it can make even fit people quite unwell. However, some people, who have flu, develop serious complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia. More than 3000 people die each year from flu in the UK and many more are admitted to hospital.

Who should have a Flu Jab?

Those with lung disease, asthma, bronchitis, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease or if your immunity is low due to chemotherapy, radiotherapy or having had your spleen removed. All those over 65 should have a flu jab.

What does the flu jab do?

The flu jab protects against flu caused by the influenza virus. It does not protect against coughs/colds and other winter viruses.

Can it make you ill?

No, the flu vaccine does not contain a virus and cannot cause illness. It is coincidence if you develop a cough or cold shortly after having a flu jab.

REMEMBER FLU CAN KILL. GET PROTECTED NOW.

Ask at reception, your doctor or nurse about the flu jab now.

Staff Training

The Health Centre will be closed on the second Wednesday if every month for staff training. The upcoming dates are posted in Reception.

In the event of urgent problems at these times, telephone the surgery, where an answering machine will inform you of the alternative arrangements.

If you need this newsletter in large print format please contact Mrs Jean Harper Practice Manager.