Asthma/COPD Clinic
Through correct diagnosis, we recognise asthma/COPD and aim to abolish the symptoms. By careful treatment, the objective is to maintain the best possible long-term airway function and reduce the risk of severe attacks. In children, we are looking to achieve normal growth. We encourage patients to use self-management plans.
Patients with asthma/COPD will be able to recognise their symptoms, know the distinction between preventers and relievers and will understand when to call for help with symptoms that are getting worse. Importantly, we will demonstrate the correct use of any chosen inhaler device.
Patients on our asthma register will be part of our call and recall system and you will be looked after by our team of practice nurses and doctors. By carefully managing your condition, we will be able to reduce risks, improve quality of life and minimise any absences form school or work.
Please ask at reception for further details. Our lead clinician for Asthma/COPD is Dr Chapela – but all doctors are fully qualified to deal with this condition.
Diabetes Clinic
Our diabetes clinic helps sufferers to find out things they don’t understand about the disease. We will look at their diabetes control and help with any problems. Importantly, we work with patients to try and prevent any problems arising.
Patients on our diabetes register will benefit from a call and recall system for monitoring their diabetes. In addition to oversight by the doctor and our trained nurses, patients will benefit from access when required to chiropody so that any problems with feet can be managed.
Potential problems with eyesight can also be managed by our retinal screening programme.
People with Type 1 diabetes attend a clinic at the hospital whilst people with type 2 diabetes may attend either the practice clinic, the hospital clinic – or both. Both hospital and practice clinics provide all reviews and routine care.
Diabetes clinics conduct physical examinations including height and weight. We can then calculate your body mass index (BMI). This should be between 20 and 25). We also check blood pressure. Whilst a normal BP would be considered 120/80 mmHg, patients are advised of a target for their situation
A foot examination is conducted to check skin and sensation. Eyes are checked by digital retinal photography. A special unit visits the practice so you can be seen at your own surgery if you are being monitored at the practice. Patients should be prepared to look at a reading chart and it will be necessary to insert eye drops to make pupils larger. This lasts for up to 2 hours – so it will be unsafe to drive until the effect of the drops has worn-off. If a patient is on insulin, we will check your injection site.
Laboratory tests are taken periodically – including haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). This allows us to check to see if your diabetes is well-contolled. Creatinine and eGFR are also checked to see how well your kidneys are performing. A lipid profile is also obtained. We will also monitor liver function to monitor fat deposition and to ensure that medication is not upsetting your liver.
Urine samples allow us to test for microalbumin which should not be present. This can be removed with medication and will help avoid some of the complications associated with diabetes.
We try to organise tests before your clinic appointment so that the results are available at the review. We will also wish to discuss with patients their general well-being, current treatment, diabetes control and any problems that they have been experiencing.
In addition to the GP and practice nurse, you may need to be referred to podiatrist or dietician.
Please ask at reception for details of our diabetes clinics.
Heart Disease
Patients with any form of Ischaemic Heart Disease such as high blood pressure, heart attack,peripheral vascular disease or who have undergone coronary surgery are placed on our call and recall register for regular monitoring.
We monitor health through practice nurse clinics and by GP oversight. Our aim is to provide patients with the best possible advice and treatment in order to maximise quality of life and help prevent future problems.
As part of our work, we monitor cholesterol levels, conduct urine and blood tests, review medication and provide lifestyle advice.
Please ask at reception for further details.
Family Planning
Routine and emergency contraception advice is available to all of our patients.
Several GPs and nurses are qualified to fit and remove coil and implant devices. Ask at reception for more information.
Childhood Immunisations
For the more information regarding childhood immunisations: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/why-vaccination-is-safe-and-important/
Please contact the surgery to cancel if you are unable to attend your child’s vaccination appointment, we will then offer you an alternative appointment.