THE HUNGERFORD SURGERY
(As at 13th November 2009)
INFLUENZA A H1N1 (SWINE FLU) UPDATE FOR
HUNGERFORD SURGERY PATIENTS
At the time of writing, the number of confirmed cases in the Hungerford area
remains relatively low although it is anticipated that the number of cases
could well rise during the winter.
By the time you read this we will have vaccinated up to 500 ‘at risk’ patients
against the H1N1 virus. It is anticipated that we will be receiving more
vaccine at some point and so please watch out for further information from
the surgery or on our website: www.hungerfordsurgery.co.uk
If patients believe they have the symptoms of Swine Flu, they should still
contact the National Pandemic Flu Service in the first instance via the Internet
or telephone:
www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu or www.nhs.uk 0800 1 513 100
Only those with potential swine flu complications i.e. pregnant women, children
under one year old and those with long term conditions should contact the surgery
to be assessed by a doctor.
If you are asked to attend the surgery for an appointment, please follow the
specific instructions given by the Receptionist who will show you to a separate
treatment room in order to minimise the risk of cross contamination.
ALL VISITORS TO HUNGERFORD SURGERY ARE REQUESTED TO USE
THE HAND GEL PROVIDED JUST INSIDE EACH ENTRANCE DOOR.
Waiting Room Blood Pressure Monitor
Thanks to a donation from our Patient Group, the ‘Friends of Hungerford’,
we have recently purchased and installed this new facility which allows patients
to check their own blood pressure prior to an appointment with their GP or Practice
Nurse.
Readings can be taken using either arm which is especially convenient for pregnant
women, patients with back problems and patients in wheelchairs.
It is quick and straightforward to use with clear instructions provided. Results
are automatically printed on thermal paper which the patient can then hand to
the GP, Nurse or into Reception for recording into their notes. Please ask at
Reception for further details.
We are looking for more patients to become involved in the ‘Friends of
Hungerford’ and would ask interested volunteers to contact the surgery
for more information.
Extended Hours
A reminder that Hungerford Surgery continues to offer additional appointments
on specific days of the month. Early appointments are available on Tuesday mornings
whilst late evening appointments are available on one Monday evening every month.
We also provide a Saturday morning surgery once a month.
These appointments are subject to availability and for pre-booked, routine
problems only but we hope that these additional appointments will help patients
who find it difficult to attend during normal opening hours.
Full details of the dates and times of these appointments can be found
on our website or by contacting the surgery reception in person or on 01488
682507.
A reminder also that during extended opening hours, and outside of normal
opening hours, all medical emergencies are attended to by the WestCall
out of hours emergency service. 0118 978 7811
Mike Hall Practice Manager