Patient Notice – 17.03.26

Important Date to Note.  The Surgery will be closed on Tuesday 17th March 2026 for St Patrick’s Day and reopen on Wednesday 18th March 2026 at 8.30am.

In the event of an emergency, please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

Staff Training Closure

The Surgery will be closed on the afternoon of Thursday 12th March 2026 for staff training.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 12th March 2026 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 427776

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

Practice Policy – Amber List Drugs – Requested by a Doctor Outside of an NHS Clinic(Private)

Staff Training Closure

The Surgery will be closed on the afternoon of Wednesday 18th February 2026 for staff training.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 19th November 2025 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 427776

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

Staff Training Closure

The Surgery will be closed on the afternoon of Wednesday 19th November 2025 for staff training.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 19th November 2025 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 427776

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

These are for patients aged under 65 in at risk patient groups.

Last year, many patients delayed attending perhaps due to the mild weather or vaccine fatigue, but prevalence of  Influenza and Covid increased in hospital and primary care settings over the winter months, but by this time it’s to late.  We would encourage patient’s to protect themselves, their families and our NHS before those winter months.

All patients aged 65 – 75 are eligible for the Flu vaccine only (Unless immunosuppressed).

Patients in at risk groups under the age of 65 are eligible for the Influenza vaccine only.

Patients aged 75+ will shortly be sent a letter inviting them to a Saturday clinic on 18th October 2025. Please attend at the designated time and bring the completed form with you. 

All other eligible patients will receive a self booking text message  inviting them to attend for their Influenza Vaccination.  We aim to carry these out in October / November 2024.  

The eligible groups for vaccine administered at the practice are Pre School Children aged  2 – 4 on the 01.09.2025, those aged 6 months to aged 65 in clinical at risk groups(to Inc. pregnant women), all patients aged over 65 on the 31st March 2026 and carers.  

Patients who are aged 65 plus and resident in a nursing / care home will be attended by the community pharmacy team.  Patients who are housebound and eligible will be attended by District Nursing.

Last year, many patients delayed attending perhaps due to the mild weather or vaccine fatigue, but prevalence of  Influenza and Covid increased in hospital and primary care settings over the winter months, but by this time it’s to late.  We would encourage patient’s to protect themselves, their families and our NHS before those winter months.

We look forward to seeing you.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 02nd October 2025 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 427776

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

Please find attached the Kerrsland Surgery – Complaints Procedure.

Should a complaint need to be filed on behalf of a service user by a third party please also complete this form.  Third Party Consent Form.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

MONDAY 14TH JULY 2025 AND TUESDAY 15TH JULY 2025

IF YOU REQUIRE A DOCTOR, OUT OF HOURS CAN BE REACHED.

14th July 2025 , please phone 02890796220

15th July 2025, please phone 02890 563254

OR IN AN EMERGENCY RING 999

We have a fantastic opening at Kerrsland Surgery to join our great team.

If you are interested, please click on the link. 

Further information Medical Receptionist post.

Our recruitment partner Lynda Jacobs looks forward to hearing from you.

Please click on the attached link for further information –  Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme

Self booking text messages have been sent to all eligible patients in this cohort who have a mobile telephone number registered with us.  There is a self booking link in the text which is available to make the booking for one week.  For patients with no mobile number we will contact you by landline.

If you wish to ring the surgery to book an appointment please ring reception on 028 90  296600.

Invitations will follow shortly by text for patients who are immuno suppressed between the ages of 18 and 75.

Patients resident in Nursing or Residential Homes will be vaccinated via local pharmacies.

For patients who are housebound our local district nursing community team will be in touch.

Children aged 5 – 17 who are immuno suppressed will receive a separate letter to attend the hospital for the vaccination.

Patients Eligible and Vaccinated by are:

Patients aged 75 years and over on the 30th June 2025 – Vaccinated in Kerrsland Surgery

Immunosuppressed Patients

Patients aged 18 years and over – Vaccinated in Kerrsland Surgery

Patients aged 5 – 17 years – Trust Clinic

Patients aged 6 months to 4 years old – Trust Clinic

Care Home Residents – Vaccinated by community pharmacy

Eligible Housebound Patients – District Nursing 

We will start to send self booking text messages to patients who are aged 75+ for their  covid vaccination.  These invitations will be sent in April 2025.

We would encourage patient’s to keep their contact details up to date with the practice.

Please use the link in the text message to book your own appointment.   The link is only valid for 7 days.

If you would prefer to ring us to secure one of the appointments please do on 02890 296600 option 5.  (After you receive the message)

There is also an option to decline the vaccine this year if you wish.

We look forward to seeing you.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

SSRIs are the most commonly used antidepressants in the UK. They are used to treat mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD and PTSD. They work by increasing the amount of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. The most commonly prescribed SSRIs are sertraline, fluoxetine, escitalopram and citalopram.

Current recommendations are for patients to continue to take their SSRI for at least 6 months after recovery. For patients who have recurrent mood disorders, a period of two years is recommended.

Many patients choose to stay on these medicines for many years. As with many medicines, although short term side effects are well known, there can be some uncertainty regarding the long term effects and risks.

The purpose of this leaflet is to help doctors and patients when making decisions regarding longer term use.

Side effects

The short term side effects of these medicines are well known and include: 

·         indigestion and stomach aches

·         not sleeping well (insomnia), or feeling very sleepy

·         headaches

·         bleeding in the stomach

·         Low libido and sexual dysfunction

Some of these can be transient but others can persist causing long term debility.

Long term risks

Compared to short term side effects, the longer term risks of any medicine can be difficult to establish. This is particularly true for SSRIs. Many people assume that there are no risks or harms.  A study published in September 22 [1] aimed to investigate this. They used observational data from over 200,000 patient records to quantify these risks, adjusting for possible confounding factors.

They found that those using SSRIs long term had

An increased risk of strokes and TIAs(↑34%), death from heart problems (↑87%) and death from any cause(↑73%)

Interestingly they also found a reduced risk of high blood pressure (↓23% ) and diabetes (↓ 32%).

Previous studies in older people have found increased risks of falls, low sodium and overall mortality. [2] There have also been concerns that SSRIs reduce bone density and increase fracture risk [3]

These studies are observational and can’t say for sure that SSRIs have caused the effects seen. Indeed some evidence can be contradictory. It is important just to consider that these medicines may not be completely harmless in the long term.

Withdrawal

When SSRIs are stopped suddenly many people will experience withdrawal effects such as anxiety, insomnia, low mood, lack of interest and electric shocks. Many patients attribute this to an unmasking of their ongoing mood disorder and promptly restart their SSRI. It is important to recognise that many symptoms like these will be transient and can be minimised by a gradual reduction in dosing. In general, you should aim to reduce your dose in step wise manner, leaving 2–4 weeks between reductions, or longer if you have been on the medicine for a number of years.

The royal college of psychiatrists have some very detailed and helpful information on antidepressant withdrawal here.

Risk of relapse

There is always a risk of relapse when you stop antidepressants and this needs to be weighed up when making a decision to stop. It’s important to recognise that relapse can occur even if you continue to take your antidepressant. A study in 2021 randomised patients in remission on long term antidepressants to either stop or continue their treatment. After one year 56% of those who stopped had a relapse, but so did 39% of the group who continued their treatment [3].

Summary

Many people have been prescribed antidepressants to successfully treat a mood disorder. After a period of remission it’s helpful to consider stopping your medication. These medicines have side effects and withdrawal can be more difficult as time goes on. As well as this there may be risks to cardiovascular health. If you do decide to reduce you should do so slowly to minimise withdrawal symptoms. 

1.       Bansal N, Hudda M, Payne RA, Smith DJ, Kessler D, Wiles N. Antidepressant use and risk of adverse outcomes: population–based cohort study. BJPsych Open. 2022;8(5):e164. doi:10.1192/bjo.2022.563

2.       Coupland C, Dhiman P, Morriss R, Arthur A, Barton G, Hippisley–Cox J et al. Antidepressant use and risk of adverse outcomes in older people: population based cohort study BMJ 2011; 343 :d4551

3.       Kang, S., Han, M., Park, C.I. et al. Use of serotonin reuptake inhibitors and risk of subsequent bone loss in a nationwide population–based cohort study. Sci Rep 11, 13461 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-92821-9

4.       Lewis G, Marston L, Duffy L, Freemantle N, Gilbody S, Hunter R, Kendrick T, Kessler D, Mangin D, King M, Lanham P, Moore M, Nazareth I, Wiles N, Bacon F, Bird M, Brabyn S, Burns A, Clarke CS, Hunt A, Pervin J, Lewis G. Maintenance or Discontinuation of Antidepressants in Primary Care. N Engl J Med. 2021 Sep 30;385(14):1257–1267. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2106356. PMID: 34587384.

The building is closed and all face to face appointments have been cancelled.  In the event of a medical emergency please phone 07487 848216.

We hope to resume a normal service when it is safe to do so.

We apologise for any inconvenience.

We are writing to advise that a temporary freeze has been placed on the movement of patients between practices within catchment area.  This will take effect from the 19th December 2024 until 31st January 2025.  

However, patients who are new to the area or have no current GP are still free to register at any practice.

Please click on the following link Bereaved NI

To be eligible to be seen, you must not be registered with a dental practice, or a private scheme, and must be experiencing an emergency, urgent or pressing dental condition.

Emergency and urgent dental conditions include:

Dental swelling (spreading infection)

Trauma to teeth arising from an external force

Uncontrolled bleeding following extraction

Severe dental pain not controlled by over the counter medications…

To access the scheme, you should contact one of the participating practices directly, outline the dental problem you are experiencing, and ask if they have any appointments available under the Scheme.  Appointments will only be offered if you meet the above criteria and if the practice has sufficient capacity.

Dental Access Scheme – DOH/HSCNI Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG)

This is due to increased prescription volumes, medication waste and medicine shortages.

In 23/ 24 there were 45.4 million items dispensed in Northern Ireland.  

165K tonnes of medicines were returned tot he pharmacy for the pharmacy with 30 % of these unopened.  

This is estimated at £18million  plus the cost of disposal.

We encourage patients to order their own prescriptions.  There are exceptions, pharmacies can order for patients who are very elderly, have serious mental health issues or a learning disability.

We would encourage patient’s to keep their contact details up to date with the practice.

Please use the link in the text message to book your own appointment.   The link is only valid for 7 days.

If you would prefer to ring us to secure one of the appointments please do on 02890 296600 option 5.

There is also an option to decline the vaccine this year if you wish.

We look forward to seeing you.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Shortly we will text eligible patients, inviting them to attend for their Influenza and Covid Vaccination.  We aim to carry these out in October / November 2024.  

The eligible groups for vaccine administered at the practice are Pre School Children aged  2 – 4 on the 01.09.2024, those aged 6 months to aged 65 in clinical at risk groups(to Inc. pregnant women), all patients aged over 65 on the 31st March 2025 and carers.  

Patients who are aged 65 plus and resident in a nursing / care home will be attended by the community pharmacy team.  Patients who are housebound and eligible will be attended by District Nursing.

A text message has already been sent to parents of children aged 2–4 inviting you to book your child on the 26.09.24 and 09.10.24.  We look forward to seeing you then

Texts will be sent shortly to patients aged 65 and older.  The text will have a specific date and time for you to attend.  These will be run on Saturday the 12th and 19th October 2024.  Please attend on the date and time specified to avoid delays.  In the event you don’t receive a text please contact reception.  They can advise you when to attend.

Further invites will be sent in due course for patients in at risk groups.

We are piloting a new approach to bookings for these vaccines.

If you receive a text your child is eligible for the vaccine.  Within the text is a link to book the appointment yourself.

Clicking the link embedded in the text will show you available dates and times for appointments.  This year we plan to have the appointments on 26th September 2024 (PM) and 09th October 2024 (PM).  Click on the date and time you would like to attend and confirm the appointment.  You will receive a confirmation text once completed.

We would encourage all patients to keep your mobile number up to date with the practice and use this booking service.  However, in the event you are unable to use this service please ring 02890 296600 after 1pm to book an appointment.

Important information to note.

You can only use the text booking service if you receive a text.

The booking link is only valid for 7 days.

Need a reminder after you have booked your appointment?  There is an ‘Add to Calendar’ function on the appointment confirmation screen.

Please find a link for details on the RSV Vaccination 

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-syncytial-virus-rsv/

This provides information on this common respiratory virus which causes serious lung infections.  

There are two cohorts of patients which, the practice will be vaccinating.  

1. Patients turning aged 75 on or after the 01st September 2024 –  We will call eligible patients throughout the year, please await your invitation.

2. Patients already aged 75 – 79 years old on the 01st September 2024.  This cohort of patients will receive a text shortly inviting you to attend for your vaccine.

Pregnant patients will be vaccinated by the trust maternity services.

We are piloting a new approach to bookings for these vaccines.

If you receive a text you are eligible.  Within the text is a link for for information on the single dose vaccine but you can now book the appointment yourself from the text using the link.

Clicking the link embedded in the text will show you available dates and times for appointments.  This year we plan to have the appointments on 12th September 2024 (PM) and 24th September 2024 (PM).  Click on the date and time you would like to attend and confirm the appointment.  You will receive a confirmation text once completed.

We would encourage all patients to keep your mobile number up to date with the practice and use this booking service.  However, in the event you are unable to use this service please ring 02890 296600 after 1pm.

Important information to note.

You can only use the text booking service if you receive a text.

The RSV vaccine cannot be given at the same time as the covid / flu vaccinations.

The booking link is only valid for 7 days.

Need a reminder after you have booked your appointment?  There is an ‘Add to Calendar’ function on the appointment confirmation screen.

Thursday 02.05.24  – For eligible patients aged 75+ who will be invited via text only between 12.00noon and 5pm.

Thursday 09.05.24 – For eligible patients aged 18+ and immuno suppressed who will also be invited via text only between 12 noon and 3pm.

Eligible housebound patients aged 75+ will be contacted by district nursing.

Eligible patients aged 5 – 17 will have a letter posted to have their vaccine at a trust location.  Unfortunately, we can’t offer these vaccines on site.

Please attend at the time specified on the text message.

We look forward to seeing you.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager.

This is a booked clinic so please ring reception on 02890296600 between the hours of 11am and 3pm to book an appointment.

This has been introduced to address the ongoing capacity issue across Emergency Departments.

The service is in operation from Monday – Friday (8AM – 6pm)(Exc Bank Holidays)

Please phone 028 9615 9444

In the event of a medical emergency, please phone 999. 

An uncomplicated UTI service for non pregnant ladies aged between 16 – 64 and a 1st UTI in six months.

A Sore Throat Service  for patients aged 6+, with symptoms no longer than 14 days.

Both services are available by contacting the pharmacy, they offer a prescription and dispensing service.

Sample pharmacies but others are available.

Boots Knock 90 654612

Gordons Castlereagh Road 90 457852

However, patients who are new to the area or have no current GP are still free to register at any practice.

You can choose both vaccines on the day or alternatively the influenza or Covid vaccines alone.

Please note we will not be running follow up clinics for the flu vaccine.

As patients please keep your mobile number up to date with the practice.

Letters will be issued shortly to patients aged over 65.

The eligible groups for the vaccine administered at the practice are Pre School Children aged  2 – 4 on the 01.09.2023, those aged 6 months to aged 65 in clinical at risk groups(to Inc. pregnant women), all patients aged over 65 on the 31st March 2024 and carers.  

Patients who are aged 65 plus and resident in a nursing / care home will be attended by the community pharmacy team.  Patients who are housebound and eligible will be attended by District Nursing.

A letter has been sent to parents of children aged 2–4 on the 06.09.23 inviting you to bring your child on the specified date and time on the letter.  These clinics will be held on the 21st and 22nd September 2023.

Further  invites will be sent in due course.

The eligible groups for the vaccine administered at the practice are all patients aged over 75 and patients who are immunosuppressed from the age 18 and under 75.

Patients who are aged 65 plus and resident in a nursing / care home will be attended by the community pharmacy team.

Patients aged between 5 and under 18 who are immunosuppressed will be vaccinated by the trust.

The practice will be closed on the 1st May 2023 for the Bank Holiday, the 8th May 2023 for the Coronation of King Charles and the 29th May 2023 for the Spring Bank Holiday.

In the event of a medical emergency please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 17th May 2023 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 464826.

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 22nd February 2023 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 464826.

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

Contraception Made Simple – Get Your combined, mini or morning after pill for free by post when you try the new pilot service from HSC and SH24, if you are aged 16+ and live in Northern Ireland.

For further information click this link. PHA on Twitter

To place an order discretely click this link.  SH24.org.uk

Our community centres are opening their doors this winter to support older people in the community.

Our Warm Spaces Warm Welcome campaign will see each community centre dedicate time each week for older people to drop into their local community centre, where they can enjoy a chat over a hot cuppa, some light refreshments and catch up with other people in their community.

For further information please click on the following link. 

However, patients who are new to the area or have no current GP are still free to register at any practice.

Throughout October 2022 we will be running two further clinics on the 15th October 2022 and the 22nd October 2022.  We have have sent eligible patients written invitations to these clinics, which will be held at Kerrsland Surgery.  Please attend on the relevant date and time.

In addition children aged between 2 & 4 years old will attend on the 13th and 20th October 2022.

Please note the car park will only be open for blue badge holders.

On the 05th and 12th November 2022 we are holding clinics for the Covid 19 Booster vaccine.  Invitation letters will start to door mat shortly for eligible patients.

For patients who have difficulty attending the practice due to mobility reasons, we have arranged for the District Nursing Teams to administer your ‘Flu and Covid’ boosters in your own home.  You won’t receive an invitation letter from us due to the alternative arrangements which have been made.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 06th October 2022 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 464826.

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

Following the death of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the practice will be closed for Her Late Majesty’s funeral and reopen on Tuesday 20th September 2022.

For  medical treatment please call the out–of– hours service on 028 9079622 or in the event of a medical emergency ring 999. 

The Surgery will be closed on the 29th August 2022 for the Bank Holiday.

In the event of a medical emergency, please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

This can be done, online www.belfasttrust.hscni.net/service/musculoskeletal–physio–outpatients/

or a printable version is available at 

www.belfasttrust.hscni.net/service/musculoskeletal–physio–outpatients/

DUE TO A BANK HOLIDAY THE PRACTICE WILL BE CLOSED ON

TUESDAY 12TH JULY 2022 AND WEDNESDAY 13TH JULY 2022

IF YOU REQUIRE A DOCTOR IN AN EMERGENCY on the 

12th July 2022, please phone 02890 796220

13th July 2022, please phone 028 90563451

Please do not call into the practice to collect prescriptions outside the pre–requisite times of 11–12 noon or 15.30 –16.30 unless by prior arrangement with the Doctor. 

We are unable to hand out scripts which have been designated to a pharmacy.  These can be collected from your designated Pharmacy.

Please do not call into the practice to collect prescriptions outside the pre–requisite times of 11–12 noon or 15.30 –16.30 unless by prior arrangement with the Doctor. 

We are unable to hand out scripts which have been designated to a pharmacy.  These can be collected from your designated Pharmacy.

We would remind patients to demonstrate compassion towards our administration team. 

We have a zero tolerance policy on aggressive or threatening behaviour.

The Surgery will be closed on:

Wednesday 15th June 2022 – PM

In the event of a medical emergency, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 464826 before 6pm or Out of Hours on 028 90563451 after 6pm.

The surgery will reopen on 16th June 2022 at 8.30am

The Surgery will be closed on the 02nd and 3rd of June 2022 for the Spring Bank Holiday and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. 

In the event of a medical emergency, please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

Covid 19 Vaccine Guide

‘Make a Difference – Join a Great Team’

Hours per week: Permanent role and open to interest from full or part time candidates.

Kerrsland Surgery is a medium sized GP surgery occupying a site in the heart of East Belfast

We are looking for a full or part–time / full–time, self–motivated, highly professional, trained and experienced Practice Nurse to join our busy, robust, resilient and friendly practice. You will be organised and confident in dealing with the public and have excellent communication skills.

It would be ideal if you could evidence clinical ability and experience in one or more of the key areas of Chronic Disease Management such as Diabetes, COPD, Asthma and Hypertension.  Having skills in pre–school vaccinations and cervical screening would also be a great addition.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a welcoming, loyal, caring and clinically excellent team, due to our practice nurse retiring.

Attractive salary (Band 6 /7) which will be agreed based on experience and skills.

Excellent terms and conditions to include: 39 Days annual leave including bank holidays, Sick Pay and HSC Pension Scheme.

A full job description is available on request.  To apply for the position, please send an expression of interest request to Mrs Kelly Bell (Receptionist) 169 Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3HZ or Kelly.Williamson.Z00014@gp.hscni.net. 

Closing Date: 31st May 2022.

The practice will be closed from 2pm to 8pm on Thursday 12th May 2022 to focus on the Spring Covid 19 Booster Vaccinations.  Our telephone calls will be limited on this day. For medical emergencies only please call 90296610 between 2pm and 6pm and after 6pm, please call 02890796220.  

Subject to Vaccine availability we are going to vaccinate patients who are aged 75 years or older (born before 31.05.1947) this is a limited group of patients only who are likely to have waning immunity who are eligible at least 3 months from their previous dose.

Invitation is by letter only at the specific date and time printed on the letter.  Letters were issued on the 27th April 2022 to attend Kerrsland Surgery. There maybe queues on the day, with limited car parking spaces available. We would suggest alternative travel methods such as using public transport or walking to attend. Please be prepared to wait.  

Patients who are living in Nursing or Residential Homes will have their Spring Covid 19 Booster vaccine provided within the care home by community pharmacy .  This will be offer on one or two dates.  

For patients aged 75 or older who are housebound, these will be offer by District Nursing.

Please bring your existing vaccination card.

We look forward to seeing you.

Mr Mark Simpson

The Practice will be closed on Monday the 02nd May 2022 for May Day and reopen on Tuesday 03rd May 2022.

For emergency treatment after surgery hours please ring the out–of–hours service at 9079 6220 or in the event of an emergency ring 999.

The practice will be closed on the afternoon of Thursday 28th April 2022 for staff training

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 23rd March 2022 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 464826.

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

For emergency treatment after surgery hours please ring the out–of–hours service at 9079 6220 or in the event of an emergency ring 999.

In the event of a medical emergency on the afternoon of the 23rd March 2022 before 6pm, please phone the out of hours service on 07809 464826.

After 6pm please phone the out of hours service on 028 90 796220.

For emergency treatment after surgery hours please ring the out–of–hours service at 9079 6220 or in the event of an emergency ring 999.

Not all helplines are free to call, so please check each website for more information.

From 1 July 2015 all numbers starting 0800 or 0808 were made free for consumers to call from mobile phones as they were from landlines. This change only affected 0800 and 0808 numbers.

To find out how the cost of calling other ‘service’ numbers has changed starting 084, 087, 09 and 118 – please visit: Ofcom Consumer Advice

Helplines link.

For the time being the practice has come to a natural end for offering the Covid Booster to patients.

However, Covid Boosters are still available at the following locations. 

The Titanic Exhibition Centre, Local Pharmacies and pop up clinics.

We would strongly encourage any patient who has not had a booster or is now considering having a 1st or 2nd dose to please visit one of these sites.

If you have any concerns about the vaccine, please speak to a health care professional. 

Pharmacists are trained to deal with common conditions; offering advice, recommending over–the–counter (OTC) products or referring patients to other healthcare professionals as appropriate.  Please phone your community pharmacist in the first instance and do not attend if you have Covid.

Thank you for your understanding.

Mr Mark Simpson

The self–certification period for Statutory Sick Pay will be extended to 28 days from the current 7days.

There will be easements within the benefits system to enable claimants to access benefits without the need for a fit note.

These are time limited and will last up to and including the 26th January 2022.

Thank you

Booster Clinics

The practice will be closed from 1pm on the 21st, 22nd and 23rd December 2021 to focus on Covid Booster Vaccinations from 2pm to 9pm.  Our telephone calls will be limited on these days. For medical emergencies only please call 90296610 between 2pm and 6pm and after 6pm, please call 02890796220.  

Subject to Vaccine availability we are going to vaccinate as many people as possible who are eligible 3 months after their 2nd dose only.  Invites will be sent via text message to attend Kerrsland Surgery, if you have already received the booster please do not contact the practice.  Vaccination centres, Pop Up clinics and Pharmacies are also available as we won’t be able to vaccinate everyone.  There maybe queues on the day, with limited car parking spaces available. We would suggest walking, cycling or using public transport to attend.   Please be prepared to wait.  

Please bring your existing vaccination card.

We look forward to seeing you.

Mr Mark Simpson

Due to the ongoing Covid–19 Pandemic, it is important Patients order their repeat prescription at least 7 days in advance of when it is due

This will ensure you have your medication over the holiday period and alleviate undue pressure on our Out–of–Hours and Community Pharmacy colleagues.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Due to the ongoing Covid–19 Pandemic, it is important Patients order their repeat prescription at least 7 days in advance of when it is due

This will ensure you have your medication over the holiday period and alleviate undue pressure on our Out–of–Hours and Community Pharmacy colleagues.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

If you have already had the vaccine at the surgery or a local pharmacy, please do not attend.

The clinics are by letter invitation only with the invites for the clinic on the 16th October 2021 being sent on the 5th October 2021.  Invitations for the clinic on the 23rd October 2021 have been sent on the 13.10.2021.  If you haven’t received an invitation at this stage pleased do not contact the practice.  Invites have been sent to parents of children aged 2 – 4 years old on the 10.11.21. It is important that you make every effort to attend these clinics as opportunities to receive the vaccine at a latter date will be limited.  Patients who are housebound or in nursing / residential homes will be looked after by the community teams. 

Please arrive at the indicated time on the letter and follow social distancing guidelines.

We look forward to seeing you.

There will be three clinics held at Kerrsland Surgery on the 02nd November, 04th November 2021 and the 11th November 2021.  These are by invite only and the letters have been issued today 20th November 2021. 

Please attend Kerrsland Surgery at the date and time specified on the letter and follow our social distancing requirements.

We look forward to seeing you.

Please find information regarding the Covid 19 Booster Vaccine Programme.

Receiving the vaccination is the most important thing you can do to maintain protection against severe COVID–19 disease, specifically hospitalisation over winter 2021/22.  It will maintain protection for those most vulnerable and also help protect the NHS.

Further information is available by clicking this link

We know many people are interested in the COVID–19 booster vaccine and want to assure you that we are working through a priority list set by the Department of Health. Please do not contact your GP about getting the vaccine. We will contact patients in order of priority.

We are starting the programme on Saturday 06th November 2021 and attendance is  by written invitation only.  There are further clinics scheduled for the 13th November, 20th November, 27th November 2021 and the 4th December 2021.  Letters have been issued today(12.11.21) for the 27th November and the 4th December 2021.  Please ensure you follow the guidance on the letter regarding arrival date, time and location.  

It is important to note there is a 15 minute waiting time after the vaccine has been administered.

We look forward to seeing you.

However, the pandemic is still not over and we need to be honest with you.

Please find attached a document to explain why we need to work differently.  Please be assured we have and continue to be open to look after your health, just differently.

Working Differently

In the event of a medical emergency, please call Out of Hours on 02890 563451.

The Department of Health in NI has introduced interim arrangements to provide holiday makers with short–term written confirmation of full vaccination. These interim arrangements will be available for foreign travel up to and including July 19, 2021 – for people visiting countries requiring proof of double dose COVID–19 vaccination.

Please click on the following link for more information.

To apply for the scheme please click here.

 ‘It should be noted that neither GPs, other HSC organisations, nor the VMS team are able to issue letters to the agreed standard for travel purposes’

Please do not contact the practice.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Staff Training Thursday 24th May 2021 – 1pm

The practice will be closed from 1pm on the above date for staff training and will reopen on Friday 25th May 2021 at 8.30am.

If you have a medical emergency which can’t wait until the next day please phone 07487848216.

For emergency treatment after hours please ring 02890 796220 or in the event of an emergency please ring 999.

There has been a lot of media coverage regarding NHS Digital and patient records being shared.  This is only applicable to England.

If you would like further information on this please click on this link, please do not contact the practice. 

Thank you.

Please find information regarding the Corona virus  Immunisation Programme.

Receiving the vaccination is the most important thing you can do to protect your community against serious illnesses.  When enough people get vaccinated, it’s harder for the disease to spread to those who can’t have vaccines.

We know many people are interested in the COVID–19 vaccination and want to assure you that we are working through a priority list set by the Department of Health.  Please do not contact your GP about getting the vaccine. We will contact patients in order of priority.

For further information please click on the following link.  Frequently Asked Questions

Patients aged over 80 years old were vaccinated on Saturday 16th January 2021.

We issued letters on the 25.01.2021 for patients aged between 77 and 79 to attend our clinic at Kerrsland Surgery on Tuesday 2nd February 2021.  Please attend at the correct time. 

Letters were issued on the 26.01.2021 for patients aged between 75.5 and 76 to attend our clinic at Kerrsland Surgery on Thursday 4th February 2021.

Letters were issued on the 02.02.21 for patients aged between 72 and 75.5 to attend our clinic at Kerrsland Surgery on Tuesday 09th February 2021.

Letters were issued on the 02.02.21 for patients aged between 70 and 72 to attend our clinic at Kerrsland Surgery on Thursday 11th February 2021.  

Letters were issued on the 09.02.21 for patients aged between 18 and 64 who are Clinically Extremely Vulnerable to attend our clinic at Kerrsland Surgery on Thursday 18th February 2021.

Letters were issued on the 16.02.21 for patients aged between 18 and 64 in the at risk group ‘Respiratory Disease’ to attend our clinics on the 23rd and 25th February 2021.

Letters were issued on the 24.02.21 for patients aged between 18 and 64 in the at risk group ‘Diabetes & Liver’ to attend our clinic on the 04th March 2021 

Letters were issued on the 02.03.21 for patients aged between 18 and 64 in the risk group ‘Heart, Chronic Kidney Disease’ to attend our clinic on the 09th March 2021 and 11th March 2021.

Letters were issued on the 02.03.21 for patients aged between 18 and 64 in the risk group ‘Addisons, Learning Disabilities and Carers’ to attend our clinics on the 16th March 2021. 

Letters were issued on the 10.03.21 for patients aged between 18 and 64 in the at Risk Groups ‘Neurology, Mental Health Illness, High BMI and Immuno Suppressed’ to attend our clinics on the 23rd and 25th March 2021.  This completes the 1st vaccination programme for the at risk groups for patients aged between 18 and 64. 

2nd vaccination.  Letters were issued on the 15.03.2021 for patients who had their 1st Covid vaccine between the 1st and 31st January 2021 to attend on Saturday 27th March 2021 at St Colmcille’s Parish Hall.    

Letters were issued on the 08.04.2021 for patients who had their 1st Covid vaccine between the 1st February 2021 and 22nd February 2021 to attend on Saturday 24th April 2021 at St Colmcille’s Parish Hall.

Letters were issued on the 30th April 2021 for patients who had their 1st Covid Vaccine between the 23rd February 2021 and the 16th March 2021 to attend on Saturday 15th May 2021at St Colmcille’s Parish Hall.

Letters were issued on the 13th May 2021 for patients who had their 1st Covid Vaccine between the 17th March 2021 and the 25th March 2021 to attend on the afternoon of Thursday 27th May 2021 at Kerrsland Surgery. 

Some patients aged between 16 and less than 18 as at the 31st March 2021 in the ‘At Risk’ Groups or CEV have been have been sent a letter to book an appointment at the hospital for the Covid vaccination, we are currently working on the Immunosuppressed and Neurology invites.

All adults are able to book an appointment at the Regional Vaccination Centres. 

Please proceed to book your appointment now by phone or the internet.  

Please Click HERE and follow the next steps.  To book an appointment by phone please ring 0300 200 7813 Mon–Sun 10:00am–5:00pm

For the avoidance of doubt this is your age as at the 31st March 2021.

Covid 19 Vaccinations a Guide for Adults. Please Click HERE 

Covid 19 Vaccinations What to expect after your vaccine.  Please Click HERE

Covid 19 Vaccinations Why do I have to wait?  Please Click HERE

We would ask our patients to follow the above guidance and please do not call the practice.  Thank you for your patience.

The practice will be closed from 1pm on the above date for staff training and will reopen on Thursday 13th May 2021 at 8.30am.

If you have a medical emergency which can’t wait until the next day please phone 07487848216.

For emergency treatment after hours please ring 02890 796220 or in the event of an emergency please ring 999.

https://twitter.com/HSCBoard/status/1382058507390754822?s=20

https://www.facebook.com/healthandsocialcareboard/posts/2873094982904864

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNnh8b7owGr/

Staff Training Closure Date

The practice will be closed on the afternoon of the 25th March 2021 for staff training.  In an emergency during this time please call (028) 90 563254.

If you have been invited for your Covid Vaccine, please attend

For emergency treatment after surgery hours please ring the out–of–hours service at 9079 6220 or in the event of an emergency ring 999.

Staff Training Closure Date

The practice will be closed on the afternoon of the 25th March 2021 for staff training.  In an emergency during this time please call (028) 90 563254.

If you have been invited for your Covid Vaccine, please attend

For emergency treatment after surgery hours please ring the out–of–hours service at 9079 6220 or in the event of an emergency ring 999.

This is to help further reduce the strain on the NHS by reducing the numbers of patients who may become infected with influenza.  If you have already had the vaccine, please do not attend.

Invitation letters have been sent on the 18th January 2021 to invite all eligible patients to the clinic.  This will be held on the 30th January 2021 at St Colmcille Parochial Hall, 191a Upper Newtownards Road a few metres up from the surgery.  Parking will be available at St Colmcille and Kerrsland Surgery.   

Please arrive at the indicated time on the letter and follow social distancing guidelines.

The trust restored normal patient registrations from Monday 6th July 2020.   However, in light of the marked increase in Covid–19 cases combined with practices actively participating in the Covid–19 Vaccination programme, the trust have decided to re–apply the temporary freeze on the free movement of patients between Practices.  This prevent patients moving to different practices within the same area.  Patients should remain registered with the GP Practice in the area.

However, if you have moved house and are relocating to a new practice area you have to register with a new GP, a practice cannot refuse your registration. It is a common sense approach to register at a practice which is closest to your house / home to facilitate GP house calls.

The Practice will be closed from 1pm –6pm on the 03rd December 2020 for Staff Training.

In the event of an emergency please ring 02890 563254 during these hours.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

How to order a prescription (Covid–safe procedures) on Vimeo

We encourage all patients to let us know a pharmacy you would like to use to collect your prescription.  

In the event you would like to collect your own prescription and and have not nominated  a pharmacy.  Prescriptions are issued between 11.00am – noon and 3.30pm – 4.30pm daily at the front window.

Our repeat medication telephone line is 02890 296610 (24 hrs)

During this period we will be offering an emergency service only.  If it is some thing which can wait please telephone the next day.

For medical emergencies between 1pm and 6pm please call 07494 896261.

For emergency treatment after 6pm please ring the out–of–hours service on 02890 796220 or in the event of an emergency ring 999.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

In the event of  a medical emergency please ring 07494 896261 before 6pm.

After 6pm please call the out of hours service on 02890 796220.

Vaccines are going to be prioritised, initially via a letter with an invite date and time to attend the practice.  These will be held on Saturdays and weekdays throughout October, November and December 2020.  The invitations have already been issued to patients who are over 65, who have respiratory or heart conditions, pregnant ladies and patients with Multiple Sclerosis.   Other groups to follow shortly will include Immuno Suppressed, Patients prescribed High Risk Drugs, Neurological Conditions, Carers and Diabetes with other conditions to follow in a phased approach. Please do not ring us to ask for the vaccine prior to an invitation being issued unless advised by a medical practitioner  eg you may be having an upcoming operation shortly.

We strongly advise you to attend these clinics as routine appointments will not available for many weeks to follow up on these.  Patients who are housebound or in residential care homes will be offered the vaccine through district nursing in due course.

When attending the practice.  Please take the following steps.

Bring your completed letter to the clinic and arrive at the correct time.

If your letter states a time range of say 9.00 – 9.30, it’s best to consider the time you arrive.  It will not help social distancing if this group of patients all arrived at say 9.00am

If its raining you may need to bring a brolly as we can only let a certain number of patients into the building at any one time.  If there is a queue and you are in the car it maybe better to wait there until the queue subsides.

Please ensure you and a carer wear a face covering.

Where a short sleeved top under your coat to aid the vaccination.

DO NOT attend if you have Covid 19 symptoms or if you have been in contact with someone with Covid 19 symptoms.  (A New or Continuous Cough, Fever, or a loss of or change in taste or smell.)

Take guidance from the admin team who will be controlling the numbers and ensuring hand sanitizer is used.

Entry is through the front of the building and exit to the rear as a one way system.  (Bar patients with mobility difficulties.)

Were possible we would ask you to try not to touch anything in the premises. 

Parking on Saturdays is for Blue Badge holders only.  

Please be patient and we look forward to seeing you.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Kerrsland Surgery

We are writing to give an update on services available at Kerrsland Surgery.

During this ongoing Pandemic we wish to thank all of our patients for your continued support and understanding during these unprecedented times which involves us all moving to a very new ‘normal’, which, is far removed from pre Covid 19 days.

The practice is very much open and has continued to be open throughout this Pandemic.

Covid 19 Centres

Covid 19 centres remain open with a need for GPs from Kerrsland surgery to cover shifts. Although the demand has significantly reduced, they still remain a valuable hub for GPs to refer patients into for assessment if they have Covid 19 symptoms. This is very important resource in the event we see spikes of Covid 19 infection or increased viral illnesses in the winter months.

Medications

Script collection is between 11.00 am and 12.00 noon and 3.30pm -4.30pm, Monday – Friday at the front right window. We would ask that when approaching the window, please respect the 2 metre rule and stand away from the window. Very few patients are now collecting scripts at the window as they are using pharmacies to collect them on their behalf. If you haven’t already done so, please nominate a pharmacy to collect the prescription on your behalf.

GP Appointments

During Covid 19 we have moved to a telephone consultation first model which enabled us to prioritise our workload. To date we continue to use this model and despite how much the open surgery was enjoyed, it is unlikely we will return to this system. The current model allows a patient to phone us up to 12.00 noon or when the GPs reach the maximum number of telephone calls per day. The GP calls the patient back to have a telephone consultation. At the GPs discretion they may decide a video call is necessary or invite the patient to the surgery for a face to face consultation. We have found many patients really are enjoying this service and our GPs have been busier than ever. Patients attending the surgery are asked to wear a mask or face covering to protect us and maintain strict social distancing when inside the building

Nursing Appointments

From the 17^th August 2020, the reception team will be screening patients for booked treatment room appointments. These can only be booked 72 hours in advance. In the meantime, the nursing team will call you back to arrange a treatment room appointment. Any patient attending the surgery are asked to wear a mask or face covering to protect us and maintain strict social distancing when inside the building.

Ear Syringing

For the foreseeable future we will not be offering an ear wax removal service with immediate effect.

We know what a valuable service this has been to our patients and the relief it can provide after the procedure. However, during this Pandemic we cancelled all our routine services including Ear Syringing and we know that many patients may have been waiting for the resumption of the service in the future. However, due to operational reasons we are unable to continue with this service in the community and we wanted to notify our patients as soon as possible.

Childhood Immunisations

We are continuing to offer Childhood immunisations on Thursday mornings. These are arranged in advance by Child Health. When attending it’s safer to have only one parent enter the building.

Cervical Smears

A catch up programme is currently running for Smears which were postponed or cancelled from March 2020. The Cervical Screening team in Belfast aim to start sending routine recalls from mid-August 2020. Please ring the practice to make an appointment with Lynn or Joy on receipt of one of the letters. Patients attending the surgery are asked to wear a mask or face covering to protect us and maintain strict social distancing when inside the building

Respiratory or Diabetic Conditions

For any COPD, Asthma or diabetes queries please ring us and speak to Sister Gardner.

Travel / Private Occupation Services

Please call the practice with your query on 02890657138, we are running a triage system at the moment and we will either be able to reserve an appointment for you or phone you back.

Registrations

Recently the trust prevented patients moving to different practices within the same boundary. However, if you have moved house and are relocating to a new practice area you have to register with a new GP, a practice cannot refuse your registration. It is a common sense approach to register at a practice which is closest to your house / home to facilitate GP house calls.

Minor Surgery, 24 hour BPs and Implanon clinics all remain suspended for the time being.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

On Behalf of

Kerrsland Surgery.

Update 31.07.2020

Our treatment room is open and during the pandemic, the services offered have in the first instance been through telephone triage. This means if a patient calls the surgery, the nurse would ring the patient back to screen the patient and ensure they are symptom free. If symptom free they would invite the patient to attend the practice for face to face bloods, ECGs, B12, Dressings, Suture removal, INRs etc. Due to demand, it is not always possible to book a patient in on the day, so the nurses have booked patients up to 72 hours in advance. Patients are asked to attend wearing a face mask or face covering to protect us. Bloods can only be carried out at the request of a GP and on arrival, a patient’s temperature is checked and they are asked to wash their hands. This maintains safety for our team and other patients.

Bloods are primarily carried out in the morning with Dressings, B12s, ECGs, immunisations etc. in the afternoons.

From the 17^th August 2020, the reception team will now carry out the screening process and book patients into the treatment room up to 72 hours in advance if they are symptom free.

The exception to this will be if the hospital has asked for bloods to be taken, the treatment room nurse will phone you back.

We regret to advise we are unable to offer the Ear Wax removal service in the treatment room.

Due to Covid19 and the enhanced safety steps we are taking, appointments are taking slightly longer so we would like to thank you for your understanding and patience with the practice.

Please do not attend the surgery if you have a new continuous cough, Temperature or a loss / change in taste or smell.

Social distancing is of upmost importance when entering the surgery.

Ear Wax Removal Service

We are writing to let our patients know that for the foreseeable future we will not be offering an ear wax removal service with immediate effect.

We know what a valuable service this has been to our patients and the relief it can provide after the procedure. However, during this Pandemic we have cancelled all our routine services including Ear Syringing and we know that many patients may have been waiting for the resumption of the service in the future. However, due to operational reasons we are unable to continue with this service in the community and we wanted to notify our patients as soon as possible.

Preventing earwax build-up

You can't prevent earwax. It's there to protect your ears from dirt and germs.

But you can keep using ear drops to soften the wax. This will help it fall out on its own and should prevent blocked ears.

Causes of earwax

You might have earwax build-up because:

•you just have more wax in your ears – some people do naturally

•you have hairy or narrow canals (the tubes that link the eardrum and outer ear)

•of your age – wax gets harder and more difficult to fall out

•of hearing aids, earplugs and other things you put in your ear – these can push the wax further in

Some practical steps to take

Speak to a pharmacist about earwax build-up. They can give advice and suggest treatments.

They might recommend chemical drops to dissolve the earwax. The earwax should fall out on its own or dissolve after about a week.

Do not use drops if you have a hole in your eardrum (a perforated eardrum).

Over the counter products are available from your local pharmacy.

Other Services

Some Local opticians and pharmacies offer ear micro suction. We are unable to make a recommendation but they can be sourced on the internet, we appreciate not everyone has access to the internet or are vulnerable patients, a family member or trusted friend maybe able to look them up for you.

We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. At your request, the Doctors are able to make a referral for you onto Secondary Care to the Ear, Nose and Throat department’s waiting lists.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

On Behalf of

Kerrsland Surgery.

Very High Risk Shielding Advice –  A Copy of the letter can be found here. 

Please click on the link for this important communication. 

This guidance is for people, including children, who are at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus (COVID–19) because of an underlying health condition, and for their family, friends and carers. It is intended for use in situations where the extremely vulnerable person is living in their own home, with or without additional support. This includes the extremely clinically vulnerable people living in long–term care facilities, either for the elderly or persons with special needs.

Shielding is a measure to protect people who are clinically extremely vulnerable by minimising all interaction between those who are extremely vulnerable and others. We are strongly advising people with serious underlying health conditions (listed below), which put them at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus (COVID–19), to rigorously follow shielding measures in order to keep themselves safe.

What do we mean by extremely vulnerable?

People falling into this extremely vulnerable group include:

1.Solid organ transplant recipients.

2.People with specific cancers: •people with cancer who are undergoing active chemotherapy or radical radiotherapy for lung cancer
•people with cancers of the blood or bone marrow such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma who are at any stage of treatment
•people having immunotherapy or other continuing antibody treatments for cancer
•people having other targeted cancer treatments which can affect the immune system, such as protein kinase inhibitors or PARP inhibitors
•people who have had bone marrow or stem cell transplants in the last 6 months, or who are still taking immunosuppression drugs


3.People with severe respiratory conditions including all cystic fibrosis, severe asthma and severe COPD.


4.People with rare diseases and inborn errors of metabolism that significantly increase the risk of infections (such as SCID, homozygous sickle cell).


5.People on immunosuppression therapies sufficient to significantly increase risk of infection.

6.Women who are pregnant with significant heart disease, congenital or acquired.

Shielding is for your personal protection. It is your choice to decide whether to follow the measures we advise. Individuals who have been given a prognosis of less than 6 months to live, and some others in special circumstances, could decide not to undertake shielding. This will be a deeply personal decision. We advise calling your GP or specialist to discuss this.

We hope these letters should arrive no later than the 31st March 2020.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

On Behalf of

Kerrsland Surgery

Self Isolation Guidance

COVID –19 (cornovirus)

Please do NOT attend the surgery.  Doing so may place vulnerable patients and NHS staff at an unnecessary risk.  We do not have facilities on site to test for COVID 19.  Please ring reception on 02890 296600.

Please Read the following advice – Covid 19 Advice

Please be aware we are inviting eligible patients to the Saturday Influenza Clinic.  Letters have been issued on the 30th September 2019. 

This year we are inviting patients over the age of 65 and patients aged between 11 and 65 with a clinical condition to the above clinic. Children aged between 2 and 4 years old have been sent an invite letter to attend a Thursday afternoon clinic.

If you have already had your vaccine before this date, please do NOT attend.

Please ensure you stick to your allocated appointment slot time.

Thank you for your understanding.

 
Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Kerrsland Surgery

With immediate effect Kerrsland Surgery no longer offer a service to counter sign Passports and Driving Licences.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

The clinical system is new to the whole team and we are currently undergoing training on its use. 

During the roll out we will be reducing the number of booked appointments available to our patients but open surgery will still be available.  Like anything new, we expect some glitches which may impact on the high level of service our patients have come to expect.   We aim to keep the disruption to a minimum during the implementation phase. 

May I take this opportunity to thank you for your patience and understanding during this period.  

In a previous announcement,  I noted there was insufficient stock to invite all of our patients to the October 2018 clinic. This was due to a stock shortage across Northern Ireland which, was beyond our control. I would like to thank all our patients for understanding the difficulties we faced.

A letter has been issued today 16th November 2018, inviting patients to the above clinic.  This should arrive on the 20th / 21st November 2018.  Please note the scheduled time slot for your vaccination.

If you receive your vaccination before the 29th November 2018 you will not need to attend on the 29th November 2018, please disregard the letter.

If you are aged under 65, please do NOT attend the surgery on the 29th November 2018.

By definition aged 65 is classed as born on or before 31st March 1954.

Thank you for your understanding.
 

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Kerrsland Surgery

Tuesday 25th December 2018 and Wednesday 26th December 2018.

Tuesday 1st January 2019.

Please ensure you order your repeat prescription in good time.   This will ensure you do not run out of your medications when the surgery is closed.

Please be aware we are only inviting eligible patients under the age of 65 to the Saturday Influenza Clinic.

This year the vaccine for over 65s is different and we will not have stock to vaccinate the over 65’s on the day.  This is due to a stock shortage across Northern Ireland which, is beyond our control.  When stock becomes available we will invite the aged over 65s to a separate dedicated clinic by letter.

If you are aged over 65, please do NOT attend the surgery on the 13th October 2018.

By definition aged 65 is classed as born on or before 31st March 1954.

Thank you for your understanding.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Kerrsland Surgery

Over the next week we will be releasing updates to our current data protection policies.  To include patient privacy notices, Data Subject Access Request(SAR) information and Subject Access request Applications.

Information will be available in our waiting rooms, website or by asking a member of the team.  

NO PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED

If you have a common condition that can be treated with a medication which, is available to buy over the counter from your local pharmacy.  You do not need to make an appointment to speak to the pharmacist, just pop in anytime and they will be happy to help you.

Ask the pharmacist for help and advice on the most appropriate medication to relieve your symptoms for:

Aches and pains (minor)

Head lice

Athlete’s foot

Heartburn and indigestion (mild)

Cold sores

Infant feeding

Colic

Nappy Rash

Constipation (occasional)

Oral health

Coughs and colds

Sore throat

Diarrhoea (occasional)

Sunscreen

Ear wax

Teething

Fungal nail infections

Threadworm

Haemorrhoids (Piles)

Vaginal Thrush

Hay fever and allergies

Vitamins

Headache and migraine (mild)

If at any time you are concerned about your condition or if your symptoms are not improving after a few days of treatment with the over the counter medications you should contact the local pharmacist or the surgery for more advice.

Please contact the surgery for further advice on 02890 296600

The Surgery is Closed on Bank Holidays, below is a list of the dates the surgery will be closed for 2018.

During evenings, weekend and bank holiday closures urgent consultations are provided by the Out of Hours Doctors in the Belfast Trust. They can be contacted on.

Phone 02890 796220.

Phone 02890 563450 for Out of Hours on the 13th July 2017 ONLY between 8AM and 6PM after 6PM and after 6PM call 02890796220.

We aim to remind patients of closures via our website and signage within the surgery, so patients can ensure their medication requests are issued before the closure.

Holiday’s 2018

New Years Day 01st January 2018
 
St Patricks Day 19th March 2018

Easter Monday  02nd April 2018

Easter Tuesday 03rd April 2018

May Bank Holiday 07th May 2018

Spring Bank Holiday 28th May 2018

Orangemen’s Day 12th July 2018

July Holiday 13th July 2018

Summer Bank Holiday 27th August 2018

Christmas Day 25th December 2018

Boxing Day 26th December 2018

New Years Day 01January 2019
 
 
Training Days to date (Further dates maybe added)
 

18th January 2018 – PM

20th February 2018 – PM

18th April 2018 – PM

07th June 2018 – PM

The Shingles Vaccination Programme will commence from October 2017.  Please find the eligibility Criteria.

The vaccine can be offered to all patients aged 70 (Birth Date Range 02.09.1946 – 01.09.1947) and 78 years (Birth Date Range 02.09.1938 – 01.09.1939) on 1 September 2017.

Those individuals now aged 71, 72, 73, 74 or 79 years of age, who had been eligible during the first four years of the programmes, remain eligible to receive the vaccine during 2017/18, if you have not yet received it.

Those people now aged 80 years of age, who had been eligible during 2016/17, are NOT eligible to receive the vaccine during the 2017/18 programme.A

A letter will be issued to all eligible patients week commencing 16th October 2017.

This is NOT applicable to any patients who are either transfering their registration permanently to our practice from another Northern Ireland GP Practice OR patients registering as a ‘temporary patient’.  Please note only patients who are registered with a GP practice in Northern Ireland can be registered as ‘temporary’

A new Registration Form (HSCR1) has been introduced and must be completed by any new patient from outside Northern Ireland wishing to register for free treatment.  This includes patients moving from England, Scotland or Wales to reside in Northern Ireland OR patients who have come from other EEA countries or overseas.  This will include someone who was born in Northern Ireland but moved away and has now returned to take up residence again or someone who has never been to Northern Ireland before.

Please be aware we unable to accept an application to register with the practice if supporting documentation is not supplied with the application from LIST 1, LIST 2 and LIST 3.

If you have any queries regarding this process please follow this link to

http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/services/1814.htm OR

phone BSO Medical Registrations on 0300555113.

The new application will be available on the above website shortly or can be collected from the 1st June 2017 from the surgery.

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

Kerrsland Surgery

Please ensure all repeat medications are ordered early if they happen to fall due on these dates.  

During this period we will run emergency appointments only for the doctors.  We aim keep disruption to a minimum but apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. 

May I thank you in advance, for your patience during this period. 

Mr Mark Simpson

Practice Manager

During evenings, weekend and bank holiday closures urgent consultations are provided by the Out of Hours Doctors in the Belfast Trust.  They can be contacted on.

Phone 02890 796220.

Phone 02890 563450 for Out of Hours on the 13th July 2017 ONLY between 8AM and 6PM after 6PM and after 6PM call 02890796220.

We aim to remind patients of closures via our website and signage within the surgery, so patients can ensure their medication requests are issued before the closure.

Holiday’s 2017

St Patricks Day             17th March 2017

Easter Monday              17th April 2017

Easter Tuesday            18th April 2017

May Bank Holiday        01st May 2017

Spring Bank Holiday     29th May 2017

Orangemen’s Day         12th July 2017

July Holiday                  13th July 2017

Summer Bank Holiday   28th August 2017

Christmas Day              25th December 2017

Boxing Day                    26th December 2017

Training Days to date (Further dates maybe added)

08th March 2017 – PM

15th May 2017 – PM

19th September 2017 – PM

15th November 2017 – PM

18th January 2018 – PM

20th February 2018 – PM

18th April 2018 – PM

07th June 2018 – PM

The number for the Out of Hours Doctors is 028 9079 6220.

Below is a list of training dates and during these times the Practice will be closed.

Tuesday 22nd November 2016

Thursday 26th January 2017

Wednesday 8th March 2017

Tuesday 16th May 2017

Please call the Out of Hours Doctors if require a GP urgently on 028 9079 6220 or call 999 in an emergency.

What is an acute prescription?
A one–off (acute) prescription is issued by a doctor to treat a specific medical condition where you will only be taking the medication for a short period of time. This might be an antibiotic or painkiller to treat an injury or infection. These items cannot be ordered through the channels below; they can only be given by a dcotor at open surgery or over the telephone.

Regular Medication currently being monitored BUT NOT on repeat
An item that is not a repeat and not issued for a one off illness but will instead be monitored by the GP will also require a telephone consultation to request this item, the following channels are not open to these types of prescriptions, your doctor will advise whether the drug is a repeat item or acute.

 
There are three ways to order repeat prescriptions:
1. By clicking on the link on our website www.kerrslandsurgery.com and requesting repeat medication via Patient Access (you must be a registered user for this service and have repeat items on your clinical record). Use the “Repeat Prescribing” link on the home page.
2. Use the right hand side of your prescription and put a tick beside the item(s) you need. Drop this in the repeat prescription postbox in reception at the surgery or post it to us. (If you would like to have a prescription posted back to you, please enclose a stamped addressed envelope.)
3. Use the telephone answering/recording machine on 028 9029 6610 available 7/24 hours. This is for repeat medication requests only, please do not use this for other requests or messages.

Please note that medication that is not on repeat and is requested over the telephone will not be prescribed unless you speak to a Doctor.

Please allow 2 working days before collecting your prescription; there is NO need to call to check if your prescription is ready.

Repeat Prescription Collection Service
The practice operates a repeat prescription collection service, whereby; your nominated pharmacist collects the prescription, which can then be obtained, from the pharmacy. Any other prescription request will need authorised by a Doctor over the telephone or by appointment.

Medication for other members of the family
Please do not request medication for other members of your family while consulting about yourself.

There has been some concern in the UK due to other strains of meningitis emerging especially A,W and Y strains that would more typically be seen overseas (especially in sub–Saharan Africa).

The ACWY meningitis vaccine is to be given to all students leaving for tertiary education for the first time aged 18–25, please make an appointment in the treatment room if this applies to you.

There will be a proposed catch up for school age children starting this year and developing over the next number of years, children will be called by either school or the surgery directly.

Skin Cancer can grow from a freckle, mole or on a normal area of skin.

The important changes to look for are;

Size; Larger than 6mm (growing or shrinking)

Shape; Ragged or irregular outline

Colour; Changing colour

Use mirrors or ask a friend to look at your back and front and don’t forget the soles of feet, between your toes, your scalp, neck and nails.

Melanoma Skin Cancer is strongly linked to episodes of sunburn.

Use sun protection:

Cover up with a hat and shirt, Use high SPF 15+ sunscreen with 4 or 5 star rating and spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm.

Take extra care if you have pale skin that burns easily or if you have lots of moles or freckles or if your family has a history of melanoma.

Further information can be found at www.careinthesun.org or www.cancerfocusni.org

Cancer Focus Helpline Northern Ireland: 0800 783 3339

As part of the choose well campaign, the Practice supports the minor ailments scheme and treat yourself better without antibiotics.

Most common winter ailments, such as colds, sore throat, cough, sinusitis or painful middle ear infection (earache) can’t be treated with antibiotics.

What works;

Rest, drink plenty of fluids, take pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen and talk to your pharmacist for advice on getting the relief you need.

How long can you expect to suffer;

Middle ear infection – 4 days

Sore throat – 1 week

Cold – 1.5 weeks

Sinusitis – 2.5 weeks

Cough – 3 weeks

What should you do now?

Ask your pharmacist what medicines should be in your cabinet to help get you and your family through the winter season.

There are fact sheets available at the reception desk in Practice or visit www.treatyourselfbetter.co.uk for more information.

Our walk in clinic / open surgery is available every week day Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday mornings from 8.30am to 10.30am where you can see a doctor. This is a one problem appointment and is on a first come first served basis. There are daily GP telephone consultation requests taken between 8.30am and 10.30am, if you have more than one problem and ongoing concerns please book an appointment with a GP.

After surgery hours and holiday closures, please call the out of hours doctors on

028 9079 6220.

In an emergency call 999.

Patients are able to book a morning appointment with the treatment room nurse for blood samples and BP checks daily between 9am and 1030. Patients should have a GP referral form or request from other health care professional for the BP check or blood sample required.

The walk in service operates from 830am – 1030am daily with a restricted number in place. This service can be used for emergency blood samples, BP checks and urine testing only. Patients should have a referral form from the GP or other health care professional requesting the blood samples or investigations.

Patients that have their bloods checked routinely for INR or drug monitoring must attend the set clinics on Monday and Wednesday mornings. Please telephone reception on 9029 6600 to make an appointment or for more information.

Dressings, wound checks, stitch removals, injections and ear syringing will be done via a booked appointment in our afternoon treatment room service between 2pm and 450pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday. Please ring 9029 6600 to make an appointment.

THE FLU CLINIC WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY THE 14TH OCTOBER 2017. 

A personal letter of invitation will be sent mid to late September 2017.

If you are in one or more of the high risk groups listed below then we can offer you a free Flu Jab.
The high risk groups are:

• 65 years or over
• heart disease including angina, heart attack, congenital heart disease and valve problems (uncomplicated hypertension is excluded)
• chest disease including asthma, bronchitis and COPD
• diabetes
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• suppression of the immune system e.g. splenectomy, some cancers or certain treatments such as steroids
• living in a residential or nursing home
• pregnant women
• chronic neurological disease including MS and Parkinson’s Disease
• learning disability
• carers
• front line health and social care staff (contact your occupational health unit)

CHILDREN
Influenza Vaccine is now offered to all children aged from 2 to 11 years old. The vaccine is for all children in this age group regardless of whether they are healthy or have underlying illnesses. The vaccine is called Fluenz. It is very effective in preventing influenza and in preventing transmission of influenza in children to adults. The vaccine is given by spraying a tiny amount of liquid into each nostril. No injection is necessary. The School Health Service will arrange for the flu vaccine to be administered during school term (age 4 to 11yrs). Pre–school children aged 2 to 4 years will be vaccinated in GP surgeries. If your school age child misses the vaccine in school we can arrange for it to be done in the Surgery.

PREGNANT WOMEN
Pregnant women will be asked to attend the Practice on allocated flu clinic days. A personal letter of invitation will be sent.

NHS Choices – Seasonal Flu Information

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/Pages/Introduction.aspx

The NI Minor Ailments Service builds upon this expertise allowing Pharmacists to offer some treatments, if they are considered necessary, free of charge to eligible patients on the health service.

For eligibility for this service, patients must be over 3months old and be registered with a GP in NI.

Patients can access this service at participating Pharmacies by self – referral (attending the pharmacy yourself), Pharmacist referral or GP Practice referral. This means, patients have access to a health care professional when needed avoiding telephone calls, wait times and booking appointments.

Patients may receive advice and/ or treatment after appropriate assessment by the Pharmacist. If medication is required it will be supplied by the Pharmacist from an agreed list of medication free of charge.

Patients must attend the pharmacist in person, however, please note that patients can still see the GP if preferred via open surgery or booked appointment.

Conditions that are currently covered by the Minor Ailment Service are;

Oral/ Vaginal Thrush

Headlice

Threadworms

Athlete’s Foot

Groin Itch

Diarrhoea

Cold Sores

Mouth Ulcers

Ear Wax

Leaflets and further information are available from the Practice, please ring 028 9029 6600 or ask at reception.

To register your interest please contact
CBT Service at Woodstock Lodge on (028) 95 042689

• Stress Control was devised by Dr. Jim White in Glasgow and is now used widely around the world.

• The class runs once a week for 6 weeks and teaches skills and techniques for managing stress.

• Topics covered include: an overview of what stress is, controlling your body, controlling your thoughts, controlling your actions, getting a good night’s sleep and planning for the future.

• Stress Control is a class not ‘group therapy’ – you do not have to talk about personal difficulties in front of others.

• You are encouraged to attend all six sessions to get the most benefit.

• Stress Control classes are free.

• Come along by yourself or feel free to bring a friend or family member with you.

Information on Stress Control Classes across Northern Ireland follow us on Facebook at
Stress Control NI Book. 

Stress

What is stress?

Stress is common to us all to a greater or lesser extent but it is difficult to define or measure.

Tell–tale signs of stress building up include:
• Not being able to sleep properly with worries going through your mind.
• Being impatient or irritable at minor problems.
• Not being able to concentrate due to many things going through your mind.
• Being unable to make decisions.
• Drinking or smoking more.
• Not enjoying food so much.
• Being unable to relax, and always feeling that something needs to be done.
• Feeling tense. Sometimes this includes a ‘knot’ in the stomach, or feeling sweaty with a dry mouth or a thumping heart.

Sometimes stress builds up quickly. For example, the unexpected traffic jam. Sometimes it is ongoing. For example, a difficult job.

Is stress harmful?

Ongoing stress is thought to be bad for health, although this is difficult to prove. For example, stress may possibly contribute to heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome, psoriasis, migraine, and tension headaches. Your work performance, and relationships, may also be affected by stress.

How can I avoid stress?

The following is a list of suggestions that may be useful to try to combat stress, some more appropriate to some people than others:

1. Stress list
You can try making a stress list. Try keeping a diary over a few weeks or so, and list the times, places, and people that aggravate your stress levels. A pattern may emerge. Is it always the traffic on the way to work that sets things off to a bad start for the day? Perhaps it’s the supermarket check–out, next door’s dog, a work colleague, or something similar that may occur regularly and cause you stress.

Once you have identified any typical or regular causes of stress, two things may then help:
If you discuss this with a close friend or family member, it may help them and you to be aware of the reasons why you are feeling stressed. Simply talking it through may help.
Secondly, these situations can be used as cues to relax. You can use simple relaxation techniques (see below) when a stressful situation occurs or is anticipated. For example, try doing neck stretching exercises when you are in that traffic jam rather than getting tense and stressed.

2. Simple relaxation techniques
• Deep breathing. This means taking a long, slow breath in, and very slowly breathing out. If you do this a few times, and concentrate fully on breathing, you may find it quite relaxing.
• Muscular tensing and stretching. Try twisting your neck around each way as far as it is comfortable, and then relax. Try fully tensing your shoulder and back muscles for several seconds, and then relax completely.
Try practising these simple techniques when you are relaxed, and then use them routinely when you come across any stressful situation.

3. Positive relaxation
Set specific times aside to relax positively. Don’t just let relaxation happen, or not happen, at the mercy of work, family, etc. Plan it, and look forward to it. Different people prefer different things. A long bath, a quiet stroll, sitting and just listening to a piece of music, etc. These times are not wasteful, and you should not feel guilty about not ‘getting on with things’. They can be times of reflection and putting life back in perspective.

Some people find it useful to set time aside for a relaxation programme such as meditation or muscular exercises. You can also buy relaxation tapes to help you learn to relax.

4. Time out
Try to allow several times a day to ‘stop’ and take some time out. For example, getting up 15–20 minutes earlier than you need to is a good start. You can use this time to think about and plan the coming day, and to prepare for the day’s events unrushed. Take a regular and proper lunch break, preferably away from work. Don’t work over lunch. If work is busy, if possible try and take 5 or 10 minutes away every few hours to relax.

Once or twice a week, try to plan some time just to be alone and unobtainable. For example, a gentle stroll or a sit in the park often helps to break out of life’s hustle and bustle.

5. Exercise
Many people claim that regular exercise reduces their level of stress. (It also keeps you fit and helps to prevent heart disease.) Any exercise is good, but try to plan at least 30 minutes of exercise on at least five days a week. A brisk walk on most days is a good start if you are not used to exercise. In addition, if you have difficulty in sleeping this may improve if you exercise regularly.

6. Smoking and alcohol
Don’t be fooled that smoking and drinking can help with stress. In the long run, they don’t. Drinking alcohol to ‘calm nerves’ is often a slippery slope to heavier and problem drinking.

7. Hobbies
Many people find that a hobby which has no deadlines, no pressures, and which can be picked up or left easily, takes the mind off stresses. For example: sports, knitting, music, model–making, puzzles, and reading for pleasure.

8. Counselling
This can be very useful and is often available through your employer or through various organisations, some of which are listed below.

9. Drug Treatment
Drugs are not very effective for stress and are rarely advised by Doctors except as a last resort.

Further Help and Advice

www.patient.co.uk – provides a wide range of useful and reliable information for patients
www.anxietyuk.org.uk – a leading UK charity for anxiety disorders
www.nopanic.org.uk – for those with panic attacks, phobias, OCD and related disorders
www.anxietyalliance.org.uk – help and support including advice on withdrawing from medication
www.alcoholics–anonymous.org.uk 028 9043 4848
Lifeline 0808 808 8000. A local organisation providing 24 hour support and counselling
New Life Counselling 028 9039 1630. Another local organisation
Samaritans 08457 90 90 90. A listening ear to those in distress
Northern Ireland Agoraphobia and Anxiety Society 028 9023 5170
National Drugs Helpline (FRANK) 0800 77 66 00. 24/7 drugs helpline
Addiction NI 028 9066 4434. Based in east Belfast providing support regarding alcohol and/or drugs
Nexus 028 9032 8803. Advice, support and counselling for victims of sexual abuse
Victim Support 028 9024 3133. Emotional support for victims of crime
Cruse 028 9079 2419. For adults, children and young people after bereavement

During evenings, weekend and bank holiday closures urgent consultations are provided by doctors employed by the Belfast Trust Doctors out of hours service.

Please call direct on 028 9079 6220.

We aim to remind our patients of these closures via our telephone message service so as patients can ensure their medication requests are issued before the closure.

 Holiday’s 2016
New Year’s Day                       1 January
St Patrick’s Day                       17 March
Easter Monday                         28 March
Easter Tuesday                        29 March
Early May Bank Holiday            2 May
Spring Bank Holiday                 30 May
Battle of the Boyne – or Orangemen’s Day 12 July
Summer Bank Holiday             29 August
Christmas Day                        27 December*
Boxing Day                             26 December

 *Christmas day is a Sunday this year, therefore the Practice will be closed the Monday and Tuesday 26th and 27th December 2016.

If you wish to discuss having an implant fitted, please make a routine appointment with Dr Murtagh. An excellent information sheet is available from Family Planning Association, click on the link below, 

http://www.fpa.org.uk/media/uploads/helpandadvice/contraception-booklets/contraceptive-implant-your-guide.pdf

Please notify us via telephone or in person if you have a carer or you are a care giver.

For further support for carers in NI please visit the Carers network in Northern Ireland.

Identifiable information about you will be shared with others in the following circumstances:

• To provide further medical treatment for you e.g. from district nurses and hospital services. 
• To help you get other services e.g. from the social work department. This requires your consent.
• When we have a duty to others e.g. in child protection cases anonymised patient information will also be used at local and national level to help the Health Board and Government plan services e.g. for diabetic care.

If you do not wish anonymous information about you to be used in such a way, please let us know.

Reception and administration staff require access to your medical records in order to do their jobs. These members of staff are bound by the same rules of confidentiality as the medical staff.

Freedom of Information

Our patient records are computerised and we assure complete confidentiality. Your rights are protected by the Data Protection Act and we comply with the Freedom of Information Act.

Examples of injections would be Knee/Shoulder/Tennis elbow/Wrist. Dr Millar can advise accordingly regarding the pros and cons of this type of therapy. It can be particularly useful for Arthritic and Tendonitis type conditions.

Minor Surgery includes Mole, Cyst and Toenail surgery. We are happy to discuss any areas of concern.

We are aware that sometimes things may go wrong and we aim to deal with the matter quickly and as amicably as possible within the Practice. 

If you wish to make a formal complaint, please write to
Mrs. Charise Boal, Practice Manager who will:

• Acknowledge your complaint in writing within 3 days
• Investigate it thoroughly
• Treat it confidentially
• Respond to you fully, in writing, within 10 working days.

We are continually striving to improve our service and encourage feedback. Please drop your suggestions into us at reception or via our contact us page on our website.

The Practice complaints procedure;

Making a complaint
If you have any complaints or concerns about the service that you have received from the doctors or staff working for this practice, please let us know.

Within 6 months of the incident that caused the problem; or
Within 6 months of discovering that you have a problem, provided that is within 12 months of the incident.

You can make your complaint:
In person
Ask to speak to Mrs Charise Boal, Practice Manager or one of the GP’s.

In writing
Some complaints may be easier to explain in writing, please give as much information as you can, then send your complaint to the practice for the attention of Mrs Charise Boal, Practice Manager as soon as possible.

When we look into your complaint, we shall aim to:
Find out what happened and what went wrong
Make it possible for you to discuss the problem with those concerned, if you would like this
Make sure you receive an apology, where appropriate
Identify what we can do to make sure the problem doesn’t happen again.

At the end of the investigation your complaint will be discussed with you in detail, either in person or in writing.

Complaining on behalf of someone else
Please note that we keep strictly to the rules of medical confidentiality. If you are complaining on behalf of someone else, we have to know that you have his or her permission to do so; i.e. a note of authority signed by the person concerned.


What you can do next
We hope that if you have a problem, you will use our practice complaints procedure. We believe that this will give us the best chance of putting right whatever has gone wrong and the opportunity to make improvements where possible to our practice.

If you remain dissatisfied with our response to your complaint, you have the right to request an Honest Broker from the Health and Social Care Board NI and refer the matter to;

Mr. Michael Cruikshanks
Deputy Complaints Manager
Health and Social Care Board
12–22 Linenhall Street
Belfast
BT2 8BS
Direct line tel.: 028 9055 3751
Email: complaints.hscb@hscni.net

The Northern Ireland Ombudsman’s office, investigates complaints made by people who believe that public bodies in Northern Ireland, such as government departments, their agencies or health service providers, have not acted properly or fairly towards them is available to you if the response to your complaint is not satisfactory.
Write to:
Freepost BEL 1478
Belfast
BT1 6BR

The Northern Ireland Ombudsman website explains the process of complaining about the NHS in NI.  

The Patient Client Council is a body that is also available to you when making a complaint, please visit their website for more details.

Help us get it right
We constantly try to improve the service we offer. Please let us know when you think we have done something well or if you have any suggestions as to how we can do something better.

Note
It is a requirement of the Health and Social Care Board NI for monitoring purposes that a copy of your complaint and the Practice response to your complaint be sent to HSCB NI, Complaints Manager annually. The letter will NOT include your personal details.