Dear Patients,

We want to begin by thanking you for being part of our community and for your continued patience and support. We understand how frustrating it can be to experience delays in accessing appointments, and we want to acknowledge the impact this may be having on you and your families.

We know many of you have shared concerns about appointment availability. For more information about the current situation, please refer to the Appointment Statement available on our website under the Patient Leaflets and Newsletters section or view the copy at our reception.

Our reception team is currently receiving a significant number of calls and comments related to appointment availability. We truly understand your frustrations and appreciate that delays can be upsetting. However, it is important to recognise that repeated negative interactions can take a toll on our staff’s wellbeing, impacting morale and staff retention—further affecting service levels and telephone wait times. We would also remind you that we have a zero-tolerance policy for abuse towards our staff.

Our team members are compassionate individuals who come to work each day to help and support you—they are mothers, fathers, children, partners—just like you. We kindly ask that everyone treats them with kindness and respect, even when situations are challenging.

For each patient who calls, it may feel like a single moment to share concerns or frustrations. However, for our reception team, hearing the same difficult messages repeatedly throughout the day can feel like a relentless barrage of negativity—and at times, rudeness—about an issue that is beyond the control of both the patient and the staff member. Currently, we are seeing around five appointment requests for every three appointments available in the local area, which unfortunately means that not everyone will be able to secure the slot they are hoping for.

Once all available appointments are booked, our reception team cannot create additional slots. However, they are trained to help you find alternative sources of support. This might include local pharmacies, NHS 111, or specialist services such as community mental health teams.

We completely understand the need to raise concerns when things don’t go as expected. If you wish to make a complaint, we ask that you do so through the appropriate channels so that we can properly address and respond. You can:

• Request a call back from an appropriate member of staff
• Request a complaints procedure leaflet at reception
• Visit our website to find the Suggestions, Concerns and Complaints section, which also includes an online submission form

If your concern relates specifically to appointment availability, we encourage you to read the detailed Appointment Statement previously mentioned and to make your voice heard through the NHS Change Survey (open until 5pm on 14th April 2025) or by contacting your local MP. This helps ensure that feedback is directed to the places where real change can be initiated, particularly around the issue of funding for general practice.

We are aware of recent posts on social media, especially Facebook, regarding appointment frustrations. While we absolutely empathise with these concerns, social media is not a suitable platform for handling individual issues, and we do not have the capacity to monitor it. Due to patient confidentiality and the limitations of these platforms, we are unable to engage publicly. This is to protect your privacy and ensure matters are handled appropriately.

We would like to thank those who have taken the time to post constructive and encouraging feedback—this is always appreciated. However, we have had negative posts brought to our attention from individuals who are either not registered patients or are using pseudonyms. If you are a patient and have concerns, we urge you to contact us directly so that we can help you appropriately.

We do use the valuable feedback we receive through official channels to improve our services. Maintaining a respectful and trusting relationship with our patients is incredibly important to us, and we are committed to working with you to create a positive experience for all.

We acknowledge that we won’t always get everything right, but we are always ready to listen, learn, and improve. If you have encountered a problem, please let us know. The information provided will include what to do if you are unsatisfied with our response.

Thank you again for your understanding, patience, and cooperation.

Kindest regards,

Berrycroft Community Health Centre

We currently have a significant shortage in our reception team due to sickness.  This means that it may take longer to answer your calls or deal with your queries.  Please be assured that we will answer your call or deal with your query as soon as we can.  We apologise for any inconvenience.

We currently have a significant shortage in our reception team due to sickness.  This means that it may take longer to answer your calls or deal with your queries.  Please be assured that we will answer your call or deal with your query as soon as we can.  We apologise for any inconvenience.

Dear Patients,

We are receiving an increasing number of enquiries regarding the private prescription of weight loss injections (GLP-1), such as Mounjaro and Wegovy. If you are considering these treatments privately, please review the following important information:

1. Prescribing Responsibility
   The decision to prescribe these treatments rests entirely with the prescribing clinician. Our GP clinicians are unable to advise on your suitability for these treatments. It is the prescribing clinician's responsibility to ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for you.
2. Access to Medical Records
   To help the prescriber make an informed decision, they may require access to your medical records. In such cases, we recommend you provide your healthcare record via the NHS App or Patient Access.
3. GPs' Role and Limitations
   GPs will not advise private providers on the safety or appropriateness of prescribing these medications. A non-response from the GP to a private provider's request for an opinion should not be interpreted as an endorsement of safety or suitability. GPs also cannot monitor or provide advice regarding medications prescribed privately. These medications are prescribed solely by specialists in NHS weight loss clinics and fall outside the scope of general GP practice. Patients will be using these medications at their own risk under the supervision of the private provider.
4. Private Prescribing Clinician's Responsibilities
   Under GMC regulations, it is the responsibility of the private prescribing clinician to ensure their prescribing is safe. This includes taking a full patient history, conducting an examination, and carrying out necessary pre-prescribing investigations. You can access your medical records through the NHS App to help facilitate your care.

Medication Safety Guidelines

Private prescribing clinicians must follow established medication safety guidelines (e.g., NICE). This includes conducting proper examinations and regular patient monitoring. For weight loss medications, this should involve accurate weight measurement at initial assessments and during regular reviews. Please note that private providers are not expected to ask NHS GPs to carry out these assessments on their behalf.

Important Medication Considerations

If you are currently taking any of the following medications, please be aware that their effectiveness or side effects may change when using GLP-1 medications. If you have concerns, please discuss them directly with your private GLP-1 prescriber. In some cases, it may be advisable to avoid GLP-1 medications.

• Levothyroxine: Book a thyroid blood test to check your TSH levels before starting GLP-1 and 6 weeks after any dose change.
• Digoxin: Check your trough digoxin level one month after starting GLP-1. Inform both us and your GLP-1 prescriber if you experience breathlessness or palpitations.
• Methotrexate and Lithium: Ensure your blood tests are up to date.
• Oral Tacrolimus, Ciclosporin: Inform your consultant that you are on GLP-1, as they are responsible for safe dosing.
• Anticonvulsants: Some anticonvulsants, including carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, sodium valproate, and sirolimus, will require more frequent monitoring.
• Warfarin: Arrange for an INR check 3-5 days after starting GLP-1 or after each dose change.

This list is not exhaustive, and we strongly advise discussing any concerns with your private GLP-1 prescriber. It is your responsibility to book necessary monitoring while on GLP-1 medications.

Contraceptive Considerations with Mounjaro

Mounjaro may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptive medications. It is recommended that you use a barrier method of contraception (e.g., a condom) or switch to a non-oral contraceptive method for 4 weeks after starting Mounjaro and for 4 weeks after each dose increase.

If you have any questions or concerns about these treatments or medications, please contact your GP, pharmacist, or your private GLP-1 prescriber directly. Please be aware that if we receive notification that you are receiving a GLP-1a medication privately, we are unable to clinically screen your case or advise on any additional monitoring requirements you may need. Your private provider should be aware of this.

Thank you for your understanding.

Kind regards,
BCHC

For pre-booked nurse appointments at the health centre between 7:00am and 8:00am, please use the side door next to the main entrance and press the buzzer for access.

Thank you

Thank you for your patience whilst our provider worked to resolve the issue with our telephone system this morning. The disruption was caused by a server issue at one of their data centres, which has now been fully resolved.

We are currently experiencing issues with our phone lines due to a national outage beyond our control. While we are still receiving calls, you may experience longer wait times, and some calls may drop unexpectedly. Our provider is working urgently to resolve the issue and we will update you as soon as it is resolved. Thank you for your patience and support.

From Monday 3^rd March, we are only able to accept samples up to 1pm, to ensure they are accurately recorded and available in time for our laboratory collection. 

Please note that any samples dropped off with us need to be:

• A same day sample – please hand in within an hour of completing or keep in a fridge at around 4^oC until you are able to do so.
• Delivered to the practice between 8am and 1pm.
• In an appropriate, sterile, sample pot – using other containers may negatively affect the result, leading to the need to repeat the sample and a possible delay of treatment.
• Have your name and date of birth clearly written on the label.
• Requested by ourselves – we are unable to test samples that have not been requested by ourselves.

Thank you for your support and understanding.

In order to improve our services, staff training will take place on Thursday 13th February and our health centre will be closed from 1pm. For urgent help between 1pm and 8am please go to www.111.nhs.uk or call 111.
We will re-open as usual at 8am on Friday 14th February.

Please note our next training date on Wednesday 12th March

Thank you for your understanding.

For reasons of clinical safety and information security we are not allowed to carry out consultations with you if you are not physically present in the UK. This includes answering written or digital requests for medical advice, and we are also not able to issue repeat prescriptions.

Please see the update below that has been added to the prescriptions page of our website:

From 3rd March 2025, we are making important changes to how repeat prescriptions are ordered. Going forward, we will no longer accept prescription requests via email, and pharmacies will no longer be able to order prescriptions on your behalf.

What does this mean for you?

If you request your prescription directly from the surgery, nothing will change, and your dispensing and delivery arrangements will remain unaffected. However, we will no longer process prescription requests via email after this date. To help reduce administrative steps and ensure your prescription reaches your GP’s inbox directly, we are introducing the following approved methods for ordering repeat prescriptions:

1. Online Ordering via the NHS App: If you haven't already set this up, visit www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/ to download the NHS App and create your NHS account. Carers can request proxy access on the NHS App to order repeat medications on behalf of the person they care for.
2. Online Ordering via Patient Access: Log in to your Patient Access account to order your repeat prescription.
3. Prescription Request Slip: Use the request slip located on the right-hand side of your repeat prescription and drop it off at the surgery’s prescription drop box (located outside the surgery door). You can ask your pharmacy for this request slip.

Please note: When ordering medication online, please ensure that only medication-related requests are included in your notes. Any other requests, such as appointment bookings or discussions about your health, will not be processed. For appointments or medical concerns, please contact the surgery directly using the usual methods, so we can assist you in the appropriate way.

Why is this happening?

We’ve received feedback from patients and healthcare professionals about concerns over medicine waste and the current prescription system. After reviewing the system, we found that when patients order their own prescriptions, it helps reduce waste, ensures medicines are correctly prescribed, and gives patients greater control over their medication.

Ordering directly from the surgery also eliminates unnecessary administrative steps and potential errors, benefiting both patients and healthcare providers. Over-ordering medications costs the NHS hundreds of millions of pounds each year, and we believe this money should be used to provide essential health services.

Things to Consider When Ordering Medication:

• Allow enough time: Please remember to allow 5 working days for processing and allow an additional 2-3 working days for your prescription to be dispensed by your pharmacy.
• Order in advance: You can request prescriptions up to 10 working days in advance.
• Order what you need: Only order the medications you need regularly, and please note that GP practices can prescribe up to 56 days' supply for eligible medications, which may mean you only need to order your medication once every 8 weeks.

We will not process prescription requests if our records show you have more than a 2-week supply of medication remaining, unless there is a specific reason for requesting it earlier. For medications that are taken ‘when required’ (e.g., pain relief), please only order more if you need a further supply.

What Happens After Ordering?

Once your prescription is ordered, the process remains the same. Your prescription will be sent to your nominated pharmacy. You can use the NHS App to track your request, see when it is approved, and change your nominated pharmacy if needed. If you haven’t nominated a pharmacy, the NHS App will generate a barcode that you can take to any pharmacy of your choice.

For more details, see: Request or View Prescriptions – NHS App Help

Please see the update below that has been added to the prescriptions page of our website:

Please note that any urgent medication will be prescribed and provided by the hospital.

Non-urgent medication: Your hospital may send us a request for a prescription recommendation.  If your GP approves the request, please allow up to 10 working days for processing.  Your hospital doctor is aware of this timeframe.

Urgent medication: Your hospital doctor will issue the prescription during your visit.  They can prescribe for the hospital pharmacy or as an FP10 prescription for any community pharmacy.  If you are unable to have your medication dispensed at the hospital pharmacy, please ask your hospital doctor for an FP10 prescription to take to your community pharmacy.  Your GP will not initiate urgent prescriptions. 

Please be sure to discuss any urgent medication needs with your healthcare team during your hospital visit.

Please see the update below which has been added to the prescriptions page of our website:

If you have a long-term condition, you will first be invited to a face-to-face pre-annual review appointment around your birthdate. This appointment helps us review your results and prepare for the next step. You will then be invited to a second appointment (either face to face or telephone) for your annual long-term condition and medication review with a nurse, pharmacist, or GP. This review ensures that your medications are prescribed appropriately, optimised, and are safe. You will receive up to two reminders for both appointments. If you do not book or attend these appointments, your GP will be informed and may reduce your medication supply to a two-weekly basis. This is done for patient safety and will be reversed once the annual review is completed.

In order to improve our services, staff training will take place on Tuesday 14th January and our health centre will be closed from 1pm.  For urgent help between 1pm and 8am please go to www.111.nhs.uk or call 111.

We will re-open as usual at 8am on Wednesday 15th January. 

Please note future training dates below for your information:

Thursday 13th February

Wednesday 12th March

Thank you for your understanding.

In response to recent security concerns and for the safety of our patients and staff, the main doors will now be locked daily from 3pm.  If you have an appointment, or require access to the surgery for medical reasons after this time, please use the buzzer located by the side door to the left of the main entrance.  Thank you for your understanding.

To ensure you have sufficient medication to last over the Christmas/New Year period, please ensure you have submitted your repeat medication requests by the 12th December.  Any prescription requests received after the 12th December are unlikely to be processed before 4th January 2025.  Thank you for your support.

Going forward, this section of the website will feature updates relevant to the daily functioning of the Health Centre.  You can select the button approximately half way down our home page for our Facebook page, which will also carry these updates in addition to health advice.  For instance, information about antibiotic usage, coughs and cancer awareness.

You are invited to light the UK in purple on 21st November to raise awareness about pancreatic cancer. You can also choose to take on Challenge 24.

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month (PCAM) - Pancreatic Cancer UK

'Mind & body' is the theme for this year's Self-Care Week. Taking time to look after ourselves can help us to live longer and healthier lives. Simple steps in self-care like getting outdoors can help both our physical and mental health, and best of all - it's FREE.

National Self-Care Week - Self Care Forum

If you have a cough for three weeks or more, a change in a cough you've had for a long time, a chest infection that doesn't get better or repeated chest infections, chest or shoulder pain that doesn't get better or a hoarse voice for three weeks or more, then make an appointment to see your GP. Also, if you're feeling breathless and wheezy for no reason, coughing up blood, losing weight for no obvious reason or feeling tired, it's a good idea to make an appointment with your GP practice. These could be potential signs of lung cancer, and while most won't be, it's important to get checked. Lung Cancer Awareness Month

It's World Diabetes Day. Across the globe, millions of people live with diabetes and good management of their condition ensures that they stay fit and healthy for the long term.  World Diabetes Day

We don't often look into our mouths to check that they're healthy, but it's important to keep a look out for potential signs of mouth cancer, which can include lumps, red or white patches, and changes to the roof of your mouth.  Mouth Cancer Action Month | Home | Oral Health Foundation

Keeping warm  in winter is vital to overall health and studies show that being cold (under 18 degrees indoor room temperature) has a negative effect and increases the risk of ill health, especially in those who are vulnerable. Winter vaccinations and winter health - NHS

There are some simple steps you can take to stay feeling healthy and happy through the winter. Your physical health is important, and so is your mental health.  5 ways to stay healthy in winter - BHF

Stress can cause both physical and mental symptoms.  Recognising signs of stress in yourself and in others is important.  Mind has a brilliant guide about the signs and symptoms of stress, and if you recognise these symptoms in yourself or others, perhaps it's time to take action to reduce your stress.  Signs and symptoms of stress - Mind

On Armistice Day, Monday 11th November, we will join the nation to pause for a two-minute silence at 11am, to reflect on the service and sacrifices the Armed Forces make on our behalf.

As the cost of living increases and more people become vulnerable, there's an increased risk of malnutrition.  Malnutrition happens when people don't have access to enough food, a well-balanced diet or where their body isn't able to absorb all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.  UK Malnutrition Awareness Week | BAPEN

The theme of this year's Anti-Bullying Week is 'choose respect'.  This week encourages us to respect individuals and ensure we treat others with thought and kindness.  Anti-Bullying Week 2024: Choose Respect

The National Bullying Helpline is available to give advice and to offer support, regardless of your age, if you're suffering from bullying.  About the National Bullying Helpline

Children aged 2-3 can get their flu vaccination from their GP surgery now.  For children who are in an at-risk group, you can book an appointment through the surgery if you don't want to wait for the schools' programme.  Children's flu vaccine - NHS

 ** Update - EMIS have corrected the issue and our systems are now running normally.  Thank you for your patience. **

Our clinical system EMIS is currently out of service, this is a national fault beyond our control.  This means that we are unable to book appointments or see patient records.

EMIS are aware of the issue and are working to get the system back up and running ASAP.  

There may be delays in us being able to book/see patients, so please be patient with our staff when calling or visiting the surgery today.  We will update you when we are up and running.

Thank you for your support.

It's Movember; time to grow the 'mo' to raise awareness of men's issues such as mental health, suicide, prostate cancer and testigular cancer.  Movember - Changing the face of men's health - Movember

One in four people will have a stroke in their lifetime; do you know the warning signs?  Symptoms of a stroke - NHS

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke.  Keeping physically active, choosing sensible food and drink and keeping an eye on your blood pressure are all steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of a TIA or stroke.  World Stroke Campaign | World Stroke Organization

You can easily find your NHS number through your NHS app, or by using the Find your NHS number service.  Find your NHS number - NHS

Support from those who understand is incredibly important if you're diagnosed with cancer.  Breast Cancer Now helps those who are newly diagnosed and those who have been dealing with their diagnosis for some time.  

We're Breast Cancer Now | Breast Cancer Now

By being active, you can reduce your risk of breast cancer by up to 20%.  See how small changes can make a big difference.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month | Breast Cancer UK

This month, take the opportunity to think about how you can maintain a healthy level of cholesterol throughout your life.  Diet and other factors like your weight, smoking and alcohol consumption can all make a difference.

National Cholesterol Month 2024

ADHD is often being discussed in the media at the moment.  It's important to recognise that ADHD can significantly impact the important relationships in your life.  ADHDAwarenessMonth 2024

ADHD is a form of neurodiversity.  'Neurodiversity' is a word used to explain the unique ways in which people's brains work, meaning that someone's brain works in a different way to the 'average' or neurotypical brain.  Neurodiversity can bring challenges, but it can also bring advantages.  October is ADHD awareness month - ADHD Aware

For 2024's World Osteoporosis Day, let's focus on the things that we can do to reduce our risk of osteoporosis.  Walking, running , climbing stairs, lifting weights and joining a gym are all brilliant ways to help you minimise your risk of osteoporosis.

World Osteoporosis Day October20

For 2024, World Menopause Day focuses on Menopause Hormone Therapy to help and support women experiencing the menopause. With 50% of the population being affected by menopause at some point in their lives, we can help to improve that transition.

World Menopause Day 2024 - International Menopause Society (imsociety.org)

In order to improve our services, staff training will be taking place on Thursday 17th October and our health centre will be closed from 1pm.  For urgent help between 1pm and 8am please go to www.111.nhs.uk or call 111.

We will re-open as usual at 8am on Friday 18th October. 

Please note that our November training day will be on Wednesday 13th November.

Thank you for your understanding.

Update:  This issue has now been resolved and we are now receiving registration emails again.  Thank you for your patience.

We have been informed, by the external team that registers new patients with the NHS, that there is currently an ongoing issue where patient registration emails sent to practices are being delayed.

We received some new registration forms during Friday, so believe that the issue started either later in the day on Friday or during Monday.  We are advised that all submissions sent will be re-processed once the incident is resolved, and that the team is working to fix the problem as fast as possible. 

This issue is beyond our control, however we can advise that patients are still able to register at our reception desk.  We will let you know once the situation is resolved.

Thank you for your understanding.

Why a new parking system?

Introduced on 20^th August 2024, the new system ensures free parking for patients with appointments at the health centre and visitors to the dentist and Reena Café, while maintaining access for ambulances and emergency vehicles.  A ten-minute grace period allows for those dropping off a patient or prescription request.  This grace period begins when you enter the car park and ends when you leave, allowing you to do so safely.

How did we inform patients?

Patients were notified on 6^th August.  Additionally, we posted updates on our website and Facebook page.  The car park has 19 signs outlining the rules, and considerable additional signage is placed throughout the building, including at reception, check-in screens, and in clusters.  Staff also remind patients to sign in when possible.

What if I get a PCN?

If you forget to enter your car registration, you need to follow the instructions on the PCN notice as appeals are handled by an external company.  You can however contact us for an appointment printout to support your appeal. 

We are unable to intervene further, however we hope you can see that this system has been introduced for the right reasons and we have made every effort to keep patients informed.

Have you considered a career as an Allied Health Professional (AHP)?  There are 15 unique roles that make up the AHP community, including emergency response, podiatry and physiotherapy amongst others.  We are allied health professionals | Health Careers

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be debilitating for those who experience it.  OCD is an anxiety disorder.  Support and understanding can help to make this condition easier to live with.  OCD Awareness Week (rethink.org)

Putting your mental health first is important!  If you need additional support, you can find the help you need here: Mental health services - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

'No mind left behind' is the theme of this year's World Mental Health Day, ensuring that anyone experiencing poor mental health gets the support and treatment they need.  World Mental Health Day - Mind

Losing a baby at any stage of pregnancy can be devastating. Baby Loss Awareness Week aims to highlight the number of people that loss affects, and to ensure that the impact is not forgotten.  Baby Loss Awareness Week – Break the silence around baby loss (babyloss-awareness.org)

Stopping smoking is one of the most important things you can do to improve your overall health, reducing your long-term risks of many health conditions. Ex-smokers report having more energy, feeling healthier and benefitting from improved breathing after just two weeks! https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

Did you know that if you stay smoke free for just 28 days, you're five times more likely to quit for good? Why not try it this October? You can find a local stop smoking support service here: https://www.nhs.uk/.../find-your-local-stop-smoking-service/

Have you ever thought about going sober for October?  Giving up alcohol for a short period can be beneficial, and longer term an overall reduction in the amount of alcohol you drink can have health benefits.  Go Sober | Macmillan Cancer Support  Why not try giving up alcohol for the next 31 days?  You may find you benefit from better sleep, improved immunity and a sharper memory.

Dyspraxia is a condition that can affect fine and/or gross motor skills.  Intellectual ability is in line with the general public, but individuals may have physical challenges that affect their daily lives.  Dyspraxia (DCD) - British Dyslexia Association (bdadyslexia.org.uk) 

Your life, your choices. No one else should have any input regarding what contraception you choose, and choosing the right one for you can be difficult. Hormonal contraception, barrier methods and more are available to you, and it’s important that you choose the right one. Your GP or local sexual health clinic can help you decide what might be right for you, and they can discuss possible outcomes with you.
https://www.your-life.com/en

A woman’s right to choose the number, timing and spacing of her children is fundamental. World Contraception Day aims to ensure that women all over the world are given access to methods of contraception.
https://www.unfpa.org/events/world-contraception-day

This year is the 30th year of the Organ Donor Register, so the focus is on the impact that organ donation has had on so many lives so far, and to say thank you to all the people who have donated organs. This Organ Donation Week, the theme is ‘paint the sky pink’ and pink lights will represent organ donation to say thank you to those who have donated. Recognising the importance of organ donation is crucial, and organ donation will continue to save many lives in the future.
https://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/how-you-ca.../turn-the-skies-pink-for-organ-donation-week/

Two million people in the UK are struggling with sight loss that’s severe enough to impact their daily life. Making sure you’re attending your eye tests and regularly checking on your eyesight can prevent it from getting any worse. Sight issues can cause eye strain and headaches, and can cause issues more complex than just your eye health. Making sure you’re taking care of your eyes is important, and if you’re often in front of screens, you could try buying blue-light glasses, which can help to preserve the health of your eyes.
https://www.visionmatters.org.uk/

1 in 7 people live with migraines consistently. Often being thought of as ‘headaches’, migraines are actually a neurological disorder. Migraines can affect not just your head but also your vision, awareness and ability to complete day-to-day tasks. Migraines can also affect your stomach, and cause vomiting and nausea. Migraines are painful and there isn’t really a cure, but taking pain medication and over-the-counter painkillers can help.
https://migrainetrust.org/understand-migraine/what-do-we-currently-know-about-migraine/

In order to improve our services, staff training will be taking place on Thursday 19th Spetmeber, from 1pm.  The surgery will be closed.  For urgent help between 1pm and 8am plesae go to www.111.nhs.uk or call 111.

We will re-open as usual at 8am on Friday 20th September. 

Thank you for your understanding.

Please click the link for infomration and guidance regarding your Blood pressure.

Blood Pressure Poster due 9.09 1.pdf

🌎 Did you know? 🌍

All used inhalers need to be returned to a pharmacy to be disposed of safely. Inhalers should not be put in waste bins as they can be harmful to the environment. 😞

In some cases, pharmacies have access to inhaler recycling, which means the plastic and gases can be recycled. 👍

"Don't forget to return your used inhaler to your pharmacist"

Important Announcement from Berrycroft Community Health Centre regarding withdrawal of unfunded service.

For some time, we have been providing an unfunded post-operative wound care service for the convenience of our patients, despite the funding to provide post operative care being received by the hospitals. This service has been especially valuable for those who need regular care but struggle to get to Stoke Mandeville Hospital.

We regret that due to increasing demands on our nursing team and financial pressures on NHS General Practice overall (https://www.bma.org.uk/bma-media-centre/responding-to-the-new-gp-contract-for-202425

We can no longer continue to provide this service for which the hospital receives payment as continuing to do so compromises our ability to deliver our core General Practice Services.

What does this mean for you?

• From 9^th September 2024 we will no longer offer post-operative wound care to any new patients. This includes post operative care from all private and NHS services, including dermatology, surgery and urgent care. Patients will be required to receive ongoing wound care from these services and departments directly.
• We cannot offer dressings or wound care for wounds obtained via trauma or other injury, as the hospitals receive funding for this whereas GP Practices do not.
• Patients currently receiving wound care will continue to be offered a maximum of 2 dressing changes per week until they are healed and discharged
• Patients who are housebound will be able to receive post-operative wound care from the local District Nursing service. This should be arranged by the hospital service directly at time of discharge.
• We will continue to offer post operative clip and suture removal as well as wound care for leg ulcers, as these are separately contracted services.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

 We have recently become aware of concerns raised by two patients on Facebook regarding their experiences at our health centre. As we do not have the capacity to actively monitor social media, these concerns only came to our attention when a very positive thread, featuring many supportive comments from our patients, was shared with us.  We are grateful for these encouraging remarks, which have been shared with our team.

We greatly value all feedback and use it to enhance patient experiences.  However, social media platforms like Facebook are not suitable for addressing individual concerns or complaints.  Even when comments come to our attention, these platforms may not fully capture the complete context and are written subjectively.  Due to the importance of patient confidentiality, we are unable to engage in any discussion on such public platforms. 

Such communications can strain the relationship between the Health Centre and the patient.  We trust you understand the challenges of providing care when there is uncertainty about what might be shared on social media.  It is important to use the appropriate channels to address and resolve concerns and complaints effectively.

We acknowledge that we may not always get everything right and, if you have encountered an issue, we encourage you to let us know directly so that we can use any learning to improve our services and your patient experience.  For more information about how to raise a concern or complaint, please ask for a leaflet in our health centre or search ‘How to raise a concern or make a complaint’ on our website.  You will also find information there detailing what to do if you are unhappy with our response.  

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease (a disease with an unclear cause that is characterized by inflammation caused by dysfunction of the immune system) that causes inflammation in the body. 

Lots of information can be found on the National Psoriasis Foundation website, please use this link The National Psoriasis Foundation.

We experienced a nationwide IT outage yesterday that was beyond our control.  Unfortunately, this also impacted our ability to update and communicate with you through our website.  We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding as we worked to resolve the issue.

Please note that parking restrictions apply to all visitors to our site, including customers of Reena Cafe and Berrycroft Dental.  Please read the parking notices on display from 20th August and ensure you enter your vehicle details on the touch screen devices provided before you exit the Health Centre, including your full, correct vehicle registration.

Further to our communication yesterday, please be advised that our new car parking system includes a ten-minute grace period for dropping off a patient or prescription. This grace period begins when you enter the car park and ends when you leave, allowing you to do so safely.

For those with multiple appointments requiring a longer stay, our system accommodates extended parking as long as those attending our health centre have registered their vehicle details.

PLEASE NOTE

With effect from Tuesday 20th August, Berrycroft Community Health Centre is implementing a car park monitoring system. This scheme is managed by Creative Car Parks. All vehicles will be photographed upon entry and exit.

Why are we doing this?

To ensure patients with appointments at Berrycroft Community Health Centre have ample parking space and to guarantee access for ambulances and other emergency vehicles.  Please note that Berrycroft Community Health Centre do not receive any income from this initiative.

Patients and Visitors:

• You must register your vehicle details on the touch screen devices provided before you exit the Health Centre.
• Enter your full, correct vehicle registration.

General Public:

• Parking is not permitted.

Creative Car Parks Terms and Conditions:

• If you breach any of these terms, you will be liable for a parking charge of up to £100.
• Additional costs and debt recovery charges will apply if the parking charge is not paid within 28 days.
• These parking terms are enforced at all times.
• Blue badge holders are not exempt from these terms.

We use ANPR, CCTV, and manual patrols to monitor this private property. We may contact the DVLA to request the Registered Keeper’s details to issue a Parking Charge Notice (PCN).

There are different types of alopecia, and various medical conditions that cause hair loss. More information on some of the most common hair loss conditions can be found on the Alopecia UK website.

To learn more please use this link https://www.alopecia.org.uk/ it offers support and advice, research information, news and events, ‘how to get involved’, FAQs page and much more.

Please click the link to watch the video on GP's are on your side: GPs Are on Your Side: a message for patients in England | British Medical Association (youtube.com)

Ensuring your skin is kept safe whilst in the sun is very important to prevent issues like cancer. The most effective ways of keeping yourself protected are using suncream, staying in the shade and wearing covering clothing. It’s important that your sun cream is at least SPF30, and UVA approved with 4 or 5 stars. It’s also important to remember that it’s not just hot weather that can burn you, and even if it doesn’t look sunny outside, the UV may still be high.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/

We have been notified that our IT systems are now back up and running. However, due to the outage on Friday and over the weekend, we have a backlog of appointments and prescriptions to catch up on. It may therefore take slightly longer to process prescriptions and this may also affect appointment availability so we would appreciate it if you could contact us with anything less urgent later on in the week. Thank you to all our patients for your understanding and we apologise for any inconvenience the national IT issue may have caused.

In order to improve our services, staff training will be taking place today, Wednesday 10th July, from 1pm.  The surgery will be closed.  For urgent help between 1pm and 8am plesae go to www.111.nhs.uk or call 111.

We will re-open as usual at 8am on Thursday 11th July.

Thank you for your understanding.

The health centre will be closed on Wednesday 5th June, from 1pm, for our monthly training afternoon.  If you require assistance after this time, please contact 111.  We will re-open as usual on Thursday 6th June.

Our next training afternoon will be Wednesday 10th July.

Thank you for your understanding.

The health centre will be closed on Tuesday 14th May, from 1pm for our monthly training afternoon.  If you require assistance after this time, please contact 111.  We will re-open as usual on Wednesday 15th May.

Our next training afternoon will be Wednesday 5th June.

Thank you for your understanding.

You can give feedback on your care, whether good or bad, in a number of ways.

CQC have a facility on their website at cqc.org.uk/give-feedback-on-care.  You can easily locate it by searching 'CQC give feedback on care' on google.

We are now able to process prescriptions to the new Jardines Pharmacy on Berryfields.  If you would like to change your nominated pharmacy, you can do this on the NHS app, or you can let us know when you order your next prescription.  Our team are currently working through our list of patients that have already advised us that they would like to change to this new pharmacy.  

Berrycroft Community Health Centre is not offering the Covid-19 spring booster vaccine. However, there are other ways to arrange a vaccine:

• You can call 119 free, and someone will help you book an appointment.
• Or, you can book online using this link: Book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
• Local pop-up clinics and offers can be found here, more dates added regularly: Covid-19 spring boosters 2024 - Stay Well (staywell-bob.nhs.uk)

Remember: If you are aged 75+, or are at high risk due to being immunosuppressed, you don't have to wait for an NHS invite to book a Covid-19 spring booster vaccine: You can book now using the above telephone number and link.

Community pharmacy opening hours for the 6 May Bank Holiday have now been published. Please see the documents for further details:

• Buckinghamshire
• Oxfordshire
• Berkshire West

Pharmacies are only listed if they have notified NHS England that they will be open.

A map of the pharmacies that will be open on the Bank Holidays can be found here.

The new Jardines Pharmacy on Berryfields is not currently showing on the NHS England site and the linked computer system.  We are therefore currently unable to forward prescriptions to this location.  We have notified the pharmacy in order that they can take any appropriate action and we will action any change of pharmacy requests as soon as their information is accessible to us.  In the meantime, please continue to request and collect your prescriptions from your current pharmacy.  Thank you for your patience and understanding whilst the pharmacy works to resolve the issue.  

Thank you for your patience yesterday whilst we experienced issues beyond our control with our telephone system.  Please be assured that we are actively monitoring the situation today.  It appears that the problem has been resolved at present. 

We are currently experiencing issues with our telephone system which are beyond our control.  Incoming calls are now being diverted to a temporary number which may cause some delays for callers.  If you select the call back option, we will contact you as soon as we can.  We appreciate your patience and understanding whilst we work hard to resolve this issue.

We have released a statement which details the reasons for the current appointment issues, what we are doing about the problem and what patients can do to help.  This can be found in the drop down menu on the front page of this website, under Patient leaflets & Newsletters.  

Please remember that your local pharmacist can help with seven common conditions, which are:

• Sinusitis
• Sore throat
• Earache (children)
• Infected insect bite
• Impetigo
• Shingles
• Urinary tract infection (women)

The health centre will be closed on Wednesday 7th February, from 1pm for our monthly training afternoon. If you require assistance after this time, please contact 111.  The practice will re-open as usual on Thursday 8th February. 

Wednesday 13th March 2024

Wednesday 17th April 2024

Tuesday 14th May 2024 

Thank you for your understanding.

Please be aware that we are currently experiencing a high volume of calls from patients seeking appointments for cough and cold viruses. This surge in demand is limiting the availablity of appointments for those with urgent medical needs. 

In line with guidance from the Royal College of General Practitioners, we kindly ask that you consider three important questions before requesting an appointment: 

1: Can I manage my symptoms through self-care measures?

2: Is it possible to find relevant information and advice on the NHS website?

3: Have I consulted with a pharmacist for guidance on managing my symptoms?

By asking yourself these questions, you can help ensure that our limited appointment slots are reserved for patients who truly require immediate medical attention. 

If your condition is urgent or worsening, please dont hesitate to contact us, and we will do our best to accommodate you. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this busy time. 

We currently have significant GP shortages due to sickness.  This means that we have very limited appointments today which will only be allocated to those with urgent need.  Please consider using other services such as Ask First, NHS 111 or your local pharmacy wherever possible.  We apologise for any inconvenience.

The health centre will be closed on Wednesday 17th January, from 1pm for our monthly training afternoon. If you require assistance after this time, please contact 111.  The practice will re-open as usual on Thursday 18th January.

Wednesday 7th February 2024

Wednesday 13th March 2024

Wednesday 17th April 2024

Tuesday 14th May 2024 

Thank you for your understanding.

Please see this link for expert advice from the NHS, on helping babies and young children when they are unwell. CCG_Booklet_21_v1.1_g (icb.nhs.uk)

Thank you for your understanding this lunchtime as we checked reasons for accessing the health centre car park.  This was to ensure those parking were patients with business at the health centre.  This followed on from a previous experience where there was gridlock, with patients missing appointments, others queueing for up to an hour to leave the car park and no ambulance access should this have been required.  We did have spaces remaining today, however this would not have been the case had we not turned away approximately 75 cars.  Thank you once again for your understanding.  

Due to clinical staff sickness, we are currently having to operate a limited service with skeleton staff and believe this may continue throughout this week.  Our remaining staff are doing everything they can to see as many patients as possible.  Please consider using other services such as Ask First, NHS 111 or your local pharmacy wherever possible.  We apologise for any inconvenience.

Following recent incidents of aggressive behaviour towards staff, we have taken the decision to change our door opening policy.

Our NHS contract requires us to be available to the public between the hours of 8am and 6.30pm, either in person or by telephone.  At present the health centre is open from 7am for pre-booked nurse appointments only.  However, we are experiencing an increasing number of patients arriving from this time with other enquiries or waiting to join the appointment queue.

From Monday 27th November 2023 the main doors will remain closed until 8am.  Only patients with pre-booked nurse appointments will be admitted to the building before 8am.  Access for these patients will be possible by pressing the intercom buzzer located at the small entrance door to the left of the main surgery entrance.

The receptionist will only permit access, before 8am, to patients with a pre-booked nurse appointment.

On this day, we will also be changing the time we open our phone lines from 8.30am to 8am.

Therefore, all appointments will be available to be booked at the same time each day, whether in person or on the telephone, which means our current ticketing system will no longer be used.

Paper prescription requests can be posted in the drop-off box to the right of the main door throughout the day at any time, however we encourage, where possible, that patients request their prescriptions electronically via the NHS app.

Appointment requests and all other enquiries will be dealt with from 8am onwards.

We have listened to your feedback regarding the appointment booking system and we hope that these changes will solve the current issues.

We thank you for your understanding.

The practice will be closed on Wednesday 15th November, from 1pm, for our monthly training afternoon.  If you require assistance after this time, please contact 111.  The practice will re-open as usual on Thursday 16th November. 

There will be no training afternoon in December.  Future training dates are as follows:

Wednesday 17th January 2024

Wednesday 7th February 2024

Wednesday 13th March 2024

Thank you for your understanding. 

The practice will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday 11th October from 1pm, for our monthly training afternoon.  If you require assistance after this time, please contact 111.  The practice will re-open as usual on Thursday 12th October.  Thank you for your understanding.

We are now offering all patients an option of support in getting set up and using online apps.  AskFirst and the NHS App allow you to complete tasks online without having to ring the surgery, like looking at your medical record and test results, requesting prescriptions, checking your referral and many more!

By using the digital assistant, you will be able to access step by step guides on how to download and/or use functionalities within our online apps.

Due to high levels of sickness within our clinical team, we apologise that our appointment slots were very limited today.  Please consider using other services such as Ask First, NHS 111 or your local pharmacy wherever possible.  We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.