Quit Smoking Support: Effective Stop Smoking Services and NHS Resources to Help You Quit
Looking for Effective Quit Smoking Support? Discover How NHS Stop Smoking Services, Quit Plans, and Nicotine Replacement Therapy Can Help You Manage Cravings, Overcome Withdrawal Symptoms, and Stay Smokefree with Vaping Options!
How Quit Smoking Support from NHS Can Help You Create a Personal Quit Plan with Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and Vaping Options to Manage Cravings and Overcome Withdrawal Symptoms Effectively!
When it comes to quitting smoking, Quit Smoking Support from the NHS is an invaluable resource designed to help you quit for good. With a local stop-smoking service, you can access various free NHS options tailored to your needs. Research shows that smokers who seek help are three times more likely to quit successfully, so taking the first step toward a smoke-free life is crucial.
Creating a personal quit plan is an essential part of your journey. The NHS provides various ways to quit, including Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), which may include products like nicotine patches, gum, and long-acting inhalers. These options are safe to use and can significantly reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to manage the urge to smoke. For those considering alternatives to traditional smoking, e-cigarettes and vapes are considered less harmful than smoking and may be offered as part of your cessation strategy.
In addition to these options, the NHS Quit Smoking App is a fantastic tool available to help you stay on track. This app provides daily support, tips, and reminders to boost your chances of quitting. For those needing immediate advice and support, a helpline is available on 0300 123 1044. The trained advisers on this helpline can guide you through the quitting process and discuss the types of stop-smoking medicines available to help.
It’s important to understand that quitting smoking is never too late. Whether you’re trying to deal with the physical and mental health challenges of quitting or looking for strategies to deal with stress without turning to tobacco, support is available to help you stop. Smokers who want to quit can access a wealth of resources, including specialist help from your GP or local pharmacist, who can provide tailored advice based on your needs.
Remember, by making use of these free stop-smoking services, you not only enhance your chances of quitting for good but also improve your overall health, reduce the risk of secondhand smoke exposure for your loved ones, and lead a healthier lifestyle. Take that step today and make a plan to quit—your future self will thank you!
Exploring Effective Ways to Quit Smoking: The Benefits of Free NHS Stop Smoking Services, E-Cigarettes, and Vapes in Your Journey to Becoming Smoke-Free This Stoptober!
Quitting smoking can be a challenging journey, but with the right support, you’re more likely to succeed. Quit Smoking Support is essential for those looking to break free from tobacco smoking. The NHS offers free stop-smoking services that provide a range of options to help you stop. Whether you want to stop smoking entirely or are trying to quit, these services can offer the right support you need.
Helplines, such as the helpline on 0300 123 1044, can provide guidance and assistance. They can help you develop a personalized plan to quit and connect you with local resources. Research shows that people who use quit smoking support are more likely to quit smoking compared to those who try to quit on their own.
Many find that using e-cigarettes or vapes can aid in their quitting journey. These options may be available on prescription and can provide free tools to help you manage cravings. Carbon monoxide testing can also demonstrate the immediate health benefits of quitting, improving your oxygen levels and overall well-being.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey—seeking professional support can increase your chances of becoming smoke-free. Visit smokefree.gov for more resources and information.
Get Support for Your Quit Day: Quit Smoking this Stoptober
Are you ready to take the first step toward quitting smoking this Stoptober? At Wandsworth Medical Centre, we are committed to providing you with the support you need for a successful quit journey. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every stage, from initial assessments to accessing urgent help and ongoing quit-smoking support.
You will gain quick access to specialists who can address your unique needs, enhancing your health and well-being. Whether you require immediate assistance or long-term support for your quit plan, we are dedicated to helping you every step of the way.
Book your appointment with us today and embark on your journey toward becoming smoke-free. Contact us now to discuss your individual needs and discover how we can assist you in achieving your goal of quitting smoking. Our friendly team is here to answer any questions and ensure you receive the care you deserve.
Phone: 0203 006 2741
Address: Mapleton Crescent, London, SW18 4DH
We look forward to supporting you. Don’t wait—reach out to us today and take a vital step toward a healthier, smoke-free life!
Mental Health Support in Wandsworth: Expert Wellbeing and NHS Services in South West London
Looking for Mental Health Services and Support in Wandsworth? Explore Urgent Help, Mental Health and Wellbeing Services, and Talking Therapies for a Healthier Mind
What Is Mental Health Support in Wandsworth and How Can It Improve Wellbeing in South West London?
At Wandsworth Medical Centre, we are committed to offering comprehensive Mental Health Support in Wandsworth to promote wellbeing for all our residents in South West London. Our mental health services are designed to provide personalised care and support, helping individuals address a range of mental health concerns such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
Mental Health Support in Wandsworth. Discover How Wandsworth Talking Therapies and Community Services Can Help
Our Patients can access a talking-therapy service and refer themselves to it online via Find an NHS talking therapies services – NHS (www.nhs.uk). Our practice works with the Wandsworth Talking Therapies team to provide help and tailored support. Whether you are a child, young adult, or older resident, we offer specialist mental health assessments and interventions, designed to meet individual needs and enhance mental wellbeing. Patients can access specialist mental health services provided by a psychiatrist through a referral from their GP.
Wandsworth crisis cafes – The recovery café in Tooting offers a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for adults who are struggling with their mental health during the evening and weekends. Volunteers and staff can support you to develop a safety plan, and talk through resilience and coping mechanisms if you are experiencing symptoms of ill mental health.
The café is open weekday evenings 6 to 11pm and weekends 12 to 11pm. No need for an appointment, just drop-in for a chat.
For anyone in the Wandsworth Borough facing mental health difficulties or looking for mental health advice, our team is here to help. Support and advice are available to people of all ages. If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, don’t hesitate to contact our reception team to make an appointment. Together, we can provide the support needed for a healthier, more resilient future.
Are You Struggling with Urgent Mental Health Issues in Wandsworth? Discover How Wandsworth Talking Therapies and Community Services Can Help
Being in a mental health crisis can feel overwhelming, leaving individuals struggling to manage emotions and daily life. Feelings of hopelessness, severe anxiety, or depression can arise suddenly and may affect both physical and emotional well-being. It can be difficult to think clearly or make decisions, impacting relationships, work, and overall health. These issues are exacerbated when urgent help isn’t readily available, causing those affected to feel isolated. For many in Wandsworth, the urgency of finding Mental Health Services becomes critical, especially when the situation involves suicidal thoughts, panic attacks, or other emergencies.
However, help is available. At Wandsworth Medical Centre, we understand the importance of person-centred support, and through various mental health services, we aim to provide high-quality care for both children and adults. From low moods to anxiety or stress, finding the right treatment is crucial to building resilience and recovering from mental health challenges. Whether it’s offering advice, guiding people in crisis, or connecting them with local organisations, we help you find the support needed. There are services available for everyone, including talking therapies, bereavement counselling, and online resources to help cope with urgent issues.
In a mental health crisis or emergency, you can call the South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust 24/7 mental health support line on 0800 028 8000. The mental health support line offers emotional support and advice to people who are affected by urgent mental health issues, at any time of the day or night. It is open to everyone, including children and adults of all ages, and to people who haven’t previously accessed mental health services.
Find Local Mental Health Services
Below are some key services you can access in Wandsworth for mental health support:
- Talk Wandsworth (IAPT) – Provides free confidential help for problems such as stress, worry, and low mood for people over the age of 18.
- Telephone: 0203 513 6264
- Website: www.talkwandsworth.nhs.uk
- Call 111, press 2. People in crisis with mental health problems can now access services through NHS 111. The number connects to a local team of call handlers with mental health training, alongside nurses and clinicians who are available around the clock. The new integrated service can give patients of all ages, including children, the chance to be listened to by a trained member of staff who can help direct them to the right place. The team can organise a mental health assessment, send out a crisis team and flag up help available in the local area.
National helplines such as the Samaritans, Mind, and The Priory also provide crucial resources to support mental health and wellbeing. For more details, see our full list of support services below, or contact Wandsworth Medical Centre for more advice.
• Samaritans – 24/7 service that is here to listen. Call 116 123
• SANEline – national out-of-hours mental health helpline. Call 0300 304 7000
• CALM – evening helpline. Call 0800 585858
• National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK – evening service. Call 0800 689 5652
• Papyrus – young person suicide support 24/7. Call 0800 068 4141
• Shout – national crisis 24/7 text service. Text ‘Shout’ to 85258
• Mind Infoline – mental health helpline. Call 0300 123 3393
How Can Wandsworth Wellbeing Hub and Charity Support Offer Immediate Mental Health Recovery for Young People?
When facing urgent mental health situations, particularly for young people, immediate and supportive intervention is essential. The Wandsworth Wellbeing Hub and local charities offer crucial services to address these urgent needs effectively.
1. Access Immediate Support: When someone is in a mental health crisis, such as experiencing suicidal thoughts or severe anxiety, it is vital to seek urgent help for mental health. The Wandsworth Wellbeing Hub provides immediate support through their crisis intervention services. For emergency situations, calling 999 can ensure prompt professional assistance.
2. Leverage Local Resources: Utilize local services like those offered by Wandsworth Medical Centre, which provides comprehensive mental health services. They can guide you through the recovery process and connect you with appropriate support and advice.
3. Seek Supportive Community Services: Engage with charities and volunteer organisations that offer emotional support. These services can provide a listening ear and practical assistance during tough times. Many organisations also run good thinking initiatives to help individuals manage their mental health proactively.
4. Use Crisis Lines: Lines such as Samaritans offer 24/7 emotional support. They provide a safe space for those who are affected by urgent mental health issues, offering confidential advice and a supportive voice.
By reaching out for help and utilizing these resources, young people facing mental health problems can receive the support they need to recover and thrive.
Ready to Access Mental Health Support in Wandsworth? Learn About Referrals, Urgent Help, and How to Get Started Today
Ready to access mental health support in Wandsworth? At Wandsworth Medical Centre, we are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care and support for your mental well-being. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process, from initial referrals to accessing urgent help and ongoing support.
Gain prompt access to a wide range of specialists who can address various conditions, ultimately enhancing your health and well-being. Whether you need immediate assistance or long-term mental health management, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
Book your appointment with us today and take the first step towards better mental health. Contact us now to discuss your individual needs and discover how we can assist you in achieving optimal health. Our friendly team is ready to help with any questions you may have and ensure you receive the care you need.
Phone: 0203 006 2741
Address: Wandsworth Medical Centre 90-92 Garratt Lane, London SW18 4DD
We look forward to welcoming you. Don’t wait—reach out to us today and start your journey towards improved mental health.
Are Whooping Cough Cases Rising in London? Explore the Impact on Cough Management with London Integrated Care
Are Whooping Cough Cases Rising in London? How Vaccination and the UK Health Security Agency Are Addressing the Surge
What Are the Symptoms of Whooping Cough in 2024? Recognise the Signs Early
With 555 confirmed cases of whooping cough reported in January 2024, recognising the symptoms early is crucial to managing and preventing this highly contagious disease. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, presents with symptoms that can initially resemble a common cold but quickly evolve into more severe issues.
In the early stages, whooping cough often begins with a runny nose, mild fever, and a persistent cough. However, as the disease progresses, it leads to severe coughing bouts that can last for weeks. These bouts are often characterised by a distinctive “whooping” sound, especially when the individual inhales deeply after a coughing fit. This symptom is particularly alarming in young babies and children, who are at the greatest risk of severe complications.
Pregnant women are advised to get vaccinated as timely vaccination in pregnancy is the best defence against whooping cough. Vaccination helps protect not only the mother but also the newborn, who is highly vulnerable to pertussis. Since babies cannot be vaccinated until they are a few months old, they rely on the immunity passed through the mother.
Recent data shows a concerning rise in cases of whooping cough. The total number of cases confirmed in January 2024 underscores the need for increased awareness and vaccination efforts. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent severe outcomes, including infant deaths, which have been a tragic consequence in some cases.
To safeguard against whooping cough, it is important to get vaccinated and ensure that those around young babies and children are also up-to-date with their vaccinations. For comprehensive care and advice, London Integrated Care offers resources and support to manage and prevent the spread of whooping cough effectively.
How Effective Is the Whooping Cough Vaccine in Preventing Rising Cases? Insights for January 2024
As the UK faces a notable increase in whooping cough cases, with an outbreak beginning last November and continuing into January 2024, questions about the vaccine’s effectiveness have become increasingly relevant. Recent data indicates that the vaccination efforts are crucial in mitigating the severity of the outbreak, which has seen a significant rise in cases.
The outbreak, which started last November, has unfortunately led to 9 infant deaths since its onset. This highlights the importance of timely vaccination, particularly for those at the highest risk, such as young babies. Babies receive their own vaccinations starting with the 6-in-1 jab at 8 weeks, but those who are overdue or have missed their vaccinations are particularly vulnerable.
The whooping cough vaccine is highly effective when administered at the right time in pregnancy. Pregnant women who receive the vaccine transfer protection to their newborns, reducing the risk of severe complications, including whooping cough-related deaths. This strategy is vital as babies are at their highest risk during the first few weeks of life, before they receive their own vaccines.
Historically, the UK has experienced cyclical increases in whooping cough cases, with a notable peak occurring in 2016. Since the outbreak began last year, this cyclical pattern has contributed to the current rise in cases, underlining the need for continued vigilance and effective vaccination campaigns.
To combat the current outbreak and prevent further cases, it is essential to get vaccinated against whooping cough. For those with questions about the vaccine and its effectiveness, consulting with healthcare providers and staying up-to-date with vaccination schedules can make a significant difference in protecting vulnerable infants and reducing the overall impact of this serious disease.
Why Are Whooping Cough Cases Rising in London this 2024? Understanding the Trends and Vaccine Solutions
In London, the rise in whooping cough cases in 2024 has become a pressing concern. Data from January 2024 shows an alarming increase in whooping cough diagnoses, following a trend that began in November 2023. Understanding the underlying reasons for this surge and the role of vaccination in controlling it is essential.
Whooping cough, or pertussis, typically starts with symptoms similar to a cold, such as a runny nose and mild fever. However, it can quickly develop into severe coughing bouts that last for weeks. These bouts are often worse at night and can be distressing, particularly for young children. In some cases, these infections can develop into prolonged coughing episodes, which can lead to complications and more severe outcomes.
The current outbreak, which began in November 2023, has continued to bring the total number of cases higher than anticipated. By March 2024, the coverage rate of vaccination had reached 58.9%, which remains insufficient to fully curb the spread of the disease. This increase in cases highlights the urgent need for improved vaccination coverage and adherence to vaccination schedules.
Vaccination is the best defence against whooping cough. It is crucial to receive the vaccine at the right time, especially for pregnant women, as it provides essential protection to newborns who are at the highest risk of severe complications. In London, vaccination efforts need to be reinforced to ensure that individuals aged 15 years or older and those in close contact with young children are adequately protected.
The rise in whooping cough cases underscores the importance of timely vaccination and adherence to health guidelines. To combat the current outbreak effectively, it is essential to continue monitoring trends, address gaps in vaccination coverage, and educate the public on the importance of protecting against whooping cough.
Consult and register with Wandsworth Medical Centre
If you’re a local resident within our SW18 catchment area, you can easily register with our practice by completing the new patient registration form.
For those living outside our catchment area, registration is subject to our discretion. Please be aware that patients outside SW18 may not have access to certain community services, such as district nurses, community mental health teams, social services, and some therapies. Furthermore, we are unable to offer home visits to patients outside our designated catchment area.
Prioritise your health today and experience the difference that exceptional private healthcare can make. With cases of whooping cough continuing to rise, it’s crucial to understand that infection can develop into severe coughing bouts, which are typically worse at night and can last for minutes. Vaccination at the right time is essential to prevent such severe outcomes, and vaccination is offered to pregnant women to protect newborns. Since the current outbreak began in December 2023, whooping cough continues to increase, and timely vaccination remains a key factor in managing this public health concern.
Healthcare Providers in London: Leading Clinics & Experts in the UK
NHS Healthcare Provider in London: Top, Medical Centres for Quality Treatment in the UK
NHS Comprehensive Patient Care: Healthcare Services and Flexible Urgent Care Appointments: London, UK Clinics
We’re here to offer quality care with a smile! Our clinics are dedicated to addressing a wide range of health concerns, from minor ailments to management of long-term conditions. We pride ourselves on providing top-quality care services.
We provide face-to-face, telephone, and online consultations every day, making it easy for you to access healthcare. Need an appointment urgently? We’ve got same-day slots available. For planned care, book up to 6 weeks in advance. Our extended hours include evenings and Saturdays to accommodate busy professionals.
Embracing the latest technology, you can book appointments or order repeat prescriptions online, while still enjoying the option of speaking with our friendly reception team if you prefer.
Serving over 18,500 patients, we ensure quality care for all, and our large practice is committed to delivering excellence in every aspect of care. We offer all NHS Services and our status as a Care Quality Commission-rated practice underscores our dedication to exceptional outcomes and patient trust.
Part of the Wandle Primary Care Network, which includes Wandsworth Medical Centre and four other local GP surgeries, we offer a broad range of services. Formed in 2019, our network serves a community of 55,000, providing access to additional services like physiotherapy, paramedics and social prescribers.
Equipping Future Doctors: Learning & Innovation
At Wandsworth Medical Centre, we’re dedicated to training the next generation of doctors to deliver exceptional patient care. Our commitment to education ensures that future clinicians gain the skills and knowledge needed to provide top-notch medical treatment and improve outcomes for patients across the UK.
Our organisation thrives on a culture of continuous learning, with regular activities and meetings to keep us all up-to-date.
By welcoming doctors in training, you help us advance the quality of public healthcare and ensure that we’re always putting patients first. Rest assured, our trainees are closely supervised by senior doctors, ensuring high-quality care every day of the year. Together, we’re committed to prevention, improving patient outcomes, and providing a comprehensive healthcare experience that prioritises the needs of every patient.
Specialty Trainees (GPST2/GPST3 Doctors)
Our GPST2 and GPST3 doctors are experienced professionals choosing to specialise in general practice. These trainees bring a wealth of hospital experience and join us for hands-on training in diagnosis and treatment, ensuring they provide unparalleled care.
In their final years of training, GPST3 doctors join us for a year.
Previously known as GP Registrars, they are supported by our care professionals and work under the supervision of our senior doctors. GPST2 doctors, in their penultimate year of training, stay with us for six to twelve months before moving on to complete their GPST3 year at another NHS teaching hospital.
Hospital Trust Foundation Trainees (FY2 Doctors)
We’re excited to welcome Foundation Trainees (FY2 Doctors) to our practice! These doctors, who have been working for about a year since qualifying, are here to gain valuable experience under supervision as GPs. Joining us for four-month periods, they bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our team, ensuring quality care for patients.
Training Medical Students
We also host bright medical students from Imperial College London. They’ll be sitting in with us, eager to learn and assist in providing top-notch care.
GP and Medical Treatment Video Recording
Sometimes, our training involves video recording consultations, but only with your full consent. These recordings are confidential and solely for the educational needs of the trainee. You can always change your mind about consent at the end of the consultation.
We Need Your Help!
- Please be patient with our learners if they seem a bit unsure.
- Consider volunteering for some sessions if approached.
- Provide feedback—both positive and constructive—about the care you receive from our learners.
Top Healthcare Benefits of Being a Training Practice
- More doctors mean more appointments available for our patients, ensuring you get fast access to the care you need.
- Explaining medical practice to trainees helps us remember the essentials and stay motivated.
- Keeps us up-to-date with best practices, maintaining our good and outstanding ratings.
- Trainees are thorough and knowledgeable, bringing new insights and contributing to better patient reviews.
- Strengthens our connections with local hospitals, as our trainees have recently worked there.
Types of consultations available at Wandsworth Medical Centre
Online consultations – The clinician can text you in response to your query.
Telephone consultations – A clinician will call you in a given time window.
Video consultations – A clinician will send you a link to join them for a video consultation.
Face to Face consultations – If a face to face consultation is your preference, a clinician will see you at the surgery.
Patient Access and NHS App – You are able to book appointments, access your medical record, view test results and request repeat prescription through Patient Access or the NHS App.
How to register with Wandsworth Medical Centre
If you’re a local resident within our SW18 catchment area, you can easily register with our practice by completing the new patient registration form.
For those living outside our catchment area, registration is at our discretion. Patients outside of SW18 should note that certain community services, such as district nurses, community mental health teams, social services, and some therapies, may not be accessible. Additionally, we will not be able to provide home visits for patients outside our catchment area.
How To Access Your NHS Account with the NHS App: Available on App Store & Google Play
Use the NHS App to Access Your Health Record, Manage your appointments, Order Repeat Prescriptions, and Communicate with your GP
A Simple and Secure Way to Manage Your NHS Account
The NHS App for smartphone or tablet has had a makeover with some fantastic changes underway. Let’s take a look at all of the amazing functionality and how to access what you need!
Discover the endless possibilities with the NHS App!
The below graphic introduces the NHS App, which highlights the app’s key features. While it’s not a step-by-step guide, it provides a handy overview of what you can accomplish using the NHS App.
Get started swiftly with the NHS App Quick Start Guide for iOS and Android!
Let’s kick off your NHS App journey with ‘Getting Started with the NHS App’. It’s crafted to make your sign-up process a breeze!
Here’s your guide to ordering request repeat prescriptions with the NHS App. Make life simpler!
Did you know: Every month in 2024, around 2 million repeat prescriptions are ordered through the NHS App and NHS Website!
You can utilise the NHS App to:
- View prescribed items
- Identify the prescription type (repeat or one-off)
- Determine the prescribing professional
It’s a completely free service that is quick, easy, and convenient for your patients.
When you select a repeat prescription request, it is sent directly to the surgery for sign-off and then issued directly to the nominated pharmacy. Orders can be made at any time at your convenience, and you don’t have to wait for surgery to open.
Once you have placed an order, you can view your repeat prescriptions status and history, including when an item was last ordered.
Here’s how to request a repeat prescription through the NHS App.
Step 1: Prescriptions Screen
- Select the ‘Your nominated pharmacy‘ option to verify that your prescription will be sent to your chosen pharmacy. You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time. It’s best to do this before placing an order to ensure your prescription is sent to the correct pharmacy.
Step 2: Confirm the Pharmacy
- Refer to ‘Choose a nominated pharmacy’ above for instructions.
- If you are satisfied with your nominated pharmacy, click ‘Back’ to return to the previous Prescriptions screen.
- Click on the ‘Order a Prescription’ button.
Step 3: Choose the Type of Prescription
- You have two options: repeat prescription and non-repeat prescription. Non-repeat prescriptions are one-time medications you may have ordered previously. To order a non-repeat prescription, contact your GP surgery directly, as this option is not available through the NHS App.
- Select ‘A repeat prescription’ and click ‘Continue’.
Step 4: Select Your Medicines
- The next screen displays the medications you can request. Choose the medicines you need and click ‘Continue’. If necessary, you can add a note for your GP in the free text box provided.
Step 5: Verify Your Prescription Details
- Review your order and ensure your nominated pharmacy is correct.
- If everything is accurate, click ‘Confirm and request your prescription’.
- To make any changes, select the ‘Back’ option to return to the previous screen.
Step 6: Prescription Ordered
- Your request is now confirmed and will be sent to the GP surgery for approval.
- Once approved, the prescription will appear as issued on your order summary screen and will be sent to your nominated pharmacy.
- Your pharmacy will notify you when your prescription is ready for collection. For any queries, please contact the pharmacy directly.
Hospital Waiting Times
For other functionalities of the NHS App, we will now take a look at the video guides available.
The NHS App home page
How to find services near you on the NHS App
How to use 111 on the NHS App
How to order your repeat prescriptions on the NHS App
How to contact your GP surgery on the NHS App
How to contact your GP surgery about a health problem on the NHS App
How to see your GP health record on the NHS App
How to see your hospital referrals on the NHS App
How to switch profiles on the NHS App
Assistance with Utilising the NHS App
If you or anyone else require any assistance with the NHS App, please use this form to contact the NHS App support team. Securely connect to information registered with a GP. The NHS England digital NHS app gives touch ID or face ID to access your detailed information, and like you the patients to send non-urgent enquiries and send replies using the clinical system, health conditions, GP records and use 111 online.
The Pharmacy First Service: Right Care, First Time with NHS England
The Pharmacy First Service: Right Care, First Time with NHS England
For A Minor Illness Or Urgent Repeat Medicine Supply: Think Pharmacy First!
Building upon on the successful Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS), which has been serving patients since October 2019 with referrals from NHS 111, Pharmacy First takes accessibility and quality care to new heights. Launched on 31 January 2024, this innovative service seamlessly integrates with existing consultation offerings, empowering community pharmacies to deliver comprehensive care for 7 common conditions through defined clinical pathways.
What are the perks of Pharmacy First clinical pathways and patient groups? Well in May 2023, NHS service finder, Pharmacy Contractors, participating pharmacies, NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care unveiled a comprehensive Delivery Plan to enhance access to primary care. As part of this initiative, patients can now obtain specific prescription medications directly from a pharmacy with a quicker and more convenient consultation with the pharmacist, eliminating the need for a General Practise (GP) appointment for emergency care.
Not only this, community pharmacies are equipped with consultation rooms and also offer a more convenient way to access healthcare that includes support with healthy eating, exercise, stopping smoking, blood pressure checks, contraception, flu and covid vaccinations.
The Seven Common Conditions and Exploring The Role Of Pharmacies In Healthcare
Empowering Healthcare with Pharmacy First
Guidance and Solutions Pharmacists are equipped to provide guidance on various health issues and recommend suitable medications.
They can also administer treatment and prescribe certain medications for specific conditions, eliminating the need for a GP visit. Conditions covered under Pharmacy First include:
- Earache (ages 1 to 17)
- Impetigo (ages 1 and up)
- Infected insect bites (ages 1 and up)
- Shingles (ages 18 and up)
- Sinusitis (ages 12 and up)
- Sore throat (ages 5 and up)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) for women (ages 16 to 64)
When visiting a pharmacy for these conditions, pharmacists will offer advice, treatment, or referrals to a GP or other healthcare professionals if necessary. They will also update your GP health record.
Pharmacists can still provide guidance for those outside these age ranges, but treatment may require a GP visit.
Medication Consultation Pharmacists can address concerns about your medications, including usage instructions, potential side effects, and other inquiries you may have.
Consultation and Antibiotic: Safe Disposal of Expired Medications
When your medication expires or you no longer need it, avoid disposing of it in the trash or flushing it down the toilet. Instead, bring it to your pharmacy for safe and proper disposal.
What Are The Benefits Of The Pharmacy First Service?
This game-changing service is poised to alleviate the strain on GP appointments, ensuring that those in urgent need receive prompt and convenient access to top-notch healthcare. From addressing pesky earaches to tackling bothersome urinary tract infections, Pharmacy First is all about nipping health concerns in the bud.
Currently, NHS patients in England typically have to visit their GP to access prescription-only medication, leading to repeated trips and treatment delays. However, with community pharmacies offering a wide array of healthcare services, including advice on the National Institute for Health, healthy living, smoking cessation support, and vaccination services, patients now have a more convenient healthcare option at their fingertips.
How Has Pharmacy First Been Received So Far?
The feedback of the Pharmacy First service has been fantastic. The community pharmacy survey revealed that over 90% of appointments a year for patients who sought guidance from a community pharmacy in the past year received excellent advice. Without the need to visit a GP, the Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the UK is doing well in this private consultation and other service provision. With the government and NHS England committed to optimising patient care, initiatives like Pharmacy First are a testament to their dedication to leveraging community pharmacists’ expertise for all benefits with complete episodes of care following defined clinical pathways.
So, step into a world of enhanced healthcare accessibility and convenience with Pharmacy First – because your well-being and supply of appropriate medicines are always our top priority!
#RightCareFirstTime #PharmacyFirst
Explore NHS Pharmacy First Service: Boosting Awareness For Health and Social Care
Advance Service Exploring Your New Medication
Embarking on a new medication regimen for a long-term condition can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Through the New Medicine Service (NMS), available free of charge, your local pharmacist can provide guidance and support as you navigate this new journey.
Who Can Benefit? If you reside in England and have been prescribed medication for conditions such as asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, or others listed below, you’re eligible to participate:
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Osteoporosis
- Gout
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy
- Parkinson’s disease
- Urinary incontinence or retention
- Heart failure
- Coronary heart disease
- Atrial fibrillation
- Unstable angina or heart attack
- Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)
- Long-term risk of blood clots or blocked blood vessels, including DVT (deep vein thrombosis)
How It Works: Inquire about the New Medicine Service when collecting your prescription from the pharmacy first scheme. Over the course of several weeks, you’ll have three appointments with the pharmacist, either in person or over the phone.
During these sessions, you can openly discuss any concerns or questions you may have about your medication. The GP appointment pharmacist is there to address any issues and can refer you back to your doctor if necessary.
Emergency Contraception Common Conditions
Certain pharmacies provide free health and social care for emergency contraceptive pills. You can purchase it from most pharmacies or clinical pathways (CPWs) if you’re 16 years old or older.
Emergency contraception service specification serves to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse (sex without contraception or when contraception fails).
It’s crucial to use emergency contraception within 3 to 5 days of unprotected intercourse.
The effectiveness of emergency contraception typically increases the sooner it’s used.
Two types of emergency contraception are available:
- An IUD (intrauterine device), also known as a copper coil.
- The emergency contraceptive pill, often referred to as the morning-after pill.
The IUD stands as the most effective form of emergency contraception.
Advice and treatment: Wondering where to get emergency contraception?
You can obtain the emergency pill or IUD at no cost from:
- Most sexual health clinics, also known as family planning or contraception clinics.
- Most GP surgeries.
Additionally, you can receive the emergency pill at no charge from:
- Some NHS walk-in centres.
- Pharmacies offering NHS emergency contraception services.
- Some young people’s services (for more details, contact the national sexual health helpline on 0300 123 7123 to provide advice).
Moreover, best course of action you can purchase the emergency contraceptive pill at most pharmacies, including online platforms from NHS England Website and access the service.
IUD: An IUD can be inserted within 5 days (120 hours) after intercourse.
It’s a small plastic T-shaped device that a specially trained nurse or doctor can place into your womb.
To have an IUD fitted, you must schedule an appointment with a nurse or doctor. Typically, this is done at a sexual health clinic or GP surgery.
The IUD can serve as your regular method of contraception and lasts for either 5 or 10 years, depending on the type.
Emergency contraceptive pill: In the UK NHS service, there are two primary types of emergency pills:
- Levonorgestrel (brands include Levonelle), which you must take within 3 days (72 hours) after intercourse.
- Ulipristal acetate (brands include ellaOne), which you need to take within 5 days (120 hours) after intercourse.
Can I Get Oral Contraception Without a Prescription or Consultation?
Starting December 2023, select pharmacies will be able to initiate or resume oral contraception for women without the need for a GP visit. This builds upon the existing service for repeat prescriptions. During a confidential consultation, the pharmacist will discuss your medication to ensure it suits your needs.
And the best part? Oral contraception is free on the NHS, with no prescription charges for you to worry about!
Check the NHS England Website Department of Health and Social for the New Pharmacy First Scheme for Advanced Service
How can I know if my local Pharmacy First scheme benefits me?