Contents:
 

Patient Access to GP Practices Report

Following feedback from members of the public regarding access to GP
practices in Redbridge, Healthwatch Redbridge decided to build a picture of how services were currently running.
 
Some people told us they were unable to see their GP in person as practices
were only offering telephone or online appointments. There were also
concerns regarding the amount of time it took to get through on the phone
to their practice. Download the report

Children’s emergency department at King George Hospital to close overnight during the winter
“We fully appreciate the enormous pressure the NHS is under now, but the loss of such a vital service, albeit temporarily, is of significant concern to us and the communities the hospital serves. - Redbridge Cllr Mark Santos
From Monday, November 16 the department will be closed between 9pm and 9am, with parents advised that any child needing to be seen during those hours will be told to go to Queen’s Hospital in Rom Valley Way, Romford instead. It has taken the temporary measure to help keep youngsters safe as several paediatricians are shielding during the pandemic. In addition, there are a number of staff vacancies that it is still trying to fill. (more...)

CQC to review uses of 'Do not attempt CPR' during pandemic

In March, we received a number of calls from relatives worried that their loved ones may have had a 'Do not attempt CPR' decision placed on them whilst in hospital without their consent. Along with other local Healthwatch, we raised these concerns with Healthwatch England who brought them to the attention of the Department of Health. Additional guidance and support helped local hospitals to ensure patients and relatives were better informed of the reasons behind decisions such as these. If you have been affected by this, please talk to us. info@healthwatchredbridge.co.uk   Tel: 020 8553 1236

Earlier in the year concerns were widely reported that elderly and vulnerable people may have been subjected to 'Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation' (DNACPR)  decisions without their consent or with little information to allow them to make an informed decision. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is expected to look at people’s experiences in care homes, primary care and hospitals. 

Initial findings are expected to be reported later this year with a final report in early 2021. (more...)

How people access parts of emergency care in London is changing
If you have an urgent, but not life-threatening, medical need and think you should go to A&E, use 111 online or ring 111. A doctor, nurse, paramedic or trained advisor will help you get help quickly and safely. (more...)

Contact your GP if you're worried about a symptom that could be cancer

Covid-19 has changed the way people are accessing services. NHS England and NHS Improvement have launched a ‘Help Us, Help You’ campaign to encourage the public to contact their GP if they are worried about a symptom that could be cancer, or another condition.  

Barts Health and the NHS as a whole has put in place a range of measures to ensure the safety of patients. 

Coronavirus testing in Redbridge
To receive a test for coronavirus, you must book an appointment or order an at-home testing kit. Before attending any test centre, you must book an appointment through the government testing portal or telephone booking. Get a test if you have coronavirus symptoms. If you do not have symptoms and have not been advised to get a test by a doctor, a public health professional or by us, you should not get a test.. (more...)

Coronavirus Support Resource Directory

Redbridge Council has put together a directory of  local businesses and organisations you can contact for help:

Access the Directory here