This is a friendly (free) course spread over 8 weeks, starting on 3rd February. There is good evidence that this course can reduce the risk of relapse of recurrent depression.
For further information, including how to self-refer, please call Talking Matters Northumberland on 0300 30 30 700 or visit their website.
Medical Student Teaching
The Royal College of General Practitioners has written to the Practice to thank our team and our patients for helping to teach undergraduate medical students. As the letter states: "we know that positive experiences of General Practice as a clinical and learning environment has a major impact on medical student career choice". The letter goes on to say that "Your team and your patients are making a big difference to the future".
We are pleased that we are playing our part in teaching the doctors (and hopefully some of them will go on to become GPs) of the future. We also want to thank our patients who have provided invaluable opportunities for our students to learn.
Pneumococcal Vaccination
The pneumococcal vaccine protects against serious and potentially fatal pneumococcal infections. It's also known as the "pneumo jab" or pneumonia vaccine. It is not given annually like the flu jab and people over 65 usually only need a single pneumococcal vaccination, which offers protection for life.
People with a long-term health condition may need just a single one-off pneumococcal vaccination or five-yearly vaccination, depending on their underlying health problem.
While it can be administered all year round we can also give this vaccination at the same time as the annual flu jab to save you a visit. We routinely offer this vaccination to eligible patients but feel free to check with a Practice Nurse when you come for your flu jab if you need a pneumococcal vaccination too.
Uptake of Seasonal Flu Vaccination
We have had another busy flu vaccination season and we are pleased that over 83% of our patients aged 65+ have been vaccinated this year. The majority of vaccinations take place in September and October but we can vaccinate even now so if you haven't already made an appointment please do. A few patients have suggested that being vaccinated in September is "too early" so we want to assure you that the vaccine you receive in September is the same as the one you would receive later on. The difference is that having it earlier means it's protecting you for longer!
Shingles Vaccination
If you are in your 70s then you may be entitled to a FREE Shingles Vaccination to prevent a common, painful skin disease. The shingles vaccine is not available on the NHS if you are aged 80 or over, so if you're in your 70's why not ask about the shingles vaccine when you are getting your flu jab. Unlike the flu jab, you'll only need to have the vaccination once and you can have it at any time of the year but it can be given with a flu vaccination.
Staff News
Our GP Registrar Dr Eleanor Walker will soon be leaving us for her next placement and we will be joined by Dr Bandara Alahakoon. Dr Mie Maxwell-Smith and Dr Eleanor Lear will remain with us until the summer.
We're also delighted to announce that our Reception Manager, Helen, has just had a baby boy.
