CONTACTING THE SURGERY

In last month’s edition, we published all the ways that you are able to contact and book appointments through at the surgery. We would like to encourage patients to utilise these alternative options as much as possible. These options were designed to fit around patient schedules and commitments such as work or childcare as we understand not everyone has the time to call and wait on the phone at 8:00am. In the same vein, we also understand that not everyone is comfortable with contacting us by digital means and if you feel this way, then please continue to contact us by telephone.

If you are unsure of what methods we offer, these can be found on our website here: https://www.kingswaysurgery.co.uk/booking-an-appointment-at-kingsway Alternatively, hard copies are available at the reception desk. 

In addition, we are currently researching the implementation of a new telephone system in line with the new primary care contract changes, and we hope this will be installed as soon as possible to alleviate wait times on the telephone lines overall.

ZERO TOLERANCE  

We would like to remind patients that the practice operates a zero-tolerance policy in line with the rest of the NHS. This means aggressive or violent behaviour towards any of our staff will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Please remember that we are here to help you to the best of our ability. Any patients found to be behaving in such a manner will be sent a warning letter from the practice. If such behaviour continues after receipt of this letter, this may result in removal from the practice list.

WHY DO STAFF ASK FOR THE MEDICAL ISSUE WHEN BOOKING AN APPOINTMENT?  

It’s not to be nosey! 

The NHS has evolved significantly in the past few years and there are more clinical roles, specialisms and pathways for treatment and care then there ever have been.  For example:

Pharmacists are able to see minor and common ailments, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, aches, pains, eye irritations and more.  

Advanced Nurse Practitioners are able to see acute problems from ages 2 and above, as well as see some long-term conditions.

Physiotherapists are able to see Muscular-Skeletal pain.

Our GPs are able to see everything, but some of our GPs specialise in certain areas, such as Diabetes, Frailty, Cardiac issues, etc.

And there are many more not covered above, such as Social Prescribers, Midwives, Mental Health Practitioners, Nurses and Health Care Assistants!

Therefore, our staff ask for a brief description of the medical issue you are experiencing, so that they can try and book you with or refer you to the best placed clinician.