MMR Catch Up Programme for 10 - 16 year olds

We are currently inviting patients between 10-16 years old to attend our MMR catch up clinics

In light of the continuing measles activity across the country, we strongly recommend that you arrange for your child to commence/complete the MMR vaccination programme now. Two doses of MMR vaccine offer the best way to protect your child against measles, mumps and rubella.  To make an appointment for your child to have the vaccine or to answer any queries please contact the surgery.

If our records are mistaken and your child has had the MMR vaccine, please contact us so we can amend our records accordingly.   There is more information on measles on the NHS Choices website.

We do hope you will take this opportunity to ensure your child is fully protected.  

Hot weather forecast for the weekend - advice to stay healthy

Hot weather is forecast for this weekend.  Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long there are health risks. Make sure the hot weather doesn't harm you or anyone you know.  Go to the NHS Choices web site to find out what you can do   http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/Pages/Heatwave.aspx

We think your views are important, have your say

Our annual patient survey starts this afternoon and will run for the next 2-3 weeks..  We would like any patient that visits the surgery to complete a questionnaire as we want to know that we are providing the best possible service for our patients.    Our survey is anonymous and will help us to understand what we do well and where we need to improve. 

The questionnaires will be analysed by an independent organisation who will provide us with information that is compared to national averages.  The results of the survey will be discussed with practice staff and with our Patient Group.  Your comments are very valuable to us.

To take part complete a survey questionnaire AFTER you have seen the doctor or nurse.  Seal the questionnaire in the envelope supplied and post it in the ballot box provided.

Medical Secretary Job Vacancy 20-25 hours per week

We are recruiting colleagues to join our friendly, patient centered team.  You will have excellent organisational skills and be able to demonstrate good touch and audio typing skills.  An understanding of medical terminology is desirable.  Please ring for an application pack or download from this web site.  Closing date for applications is Monday 15th July 2013.

Reception Training today at 1pm

We are closed between 1pm and 2pm for reception staff training.  We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

Ottery St Mary Health Summit

 A range of healthcare services in the community are currently provided by Northern Devon Healthcare Trust.  Northern, Eastern and Western (NEW) Devon Clinical Commissioning Group is responsible for buying these services on behalf of the community.  The contract for these services is due for renewal next year and needs to be specified before Christmas.  You are invited to be involved in influencing the design of community services.

The Ottery St Mary event is scheduled for: Monday 24th June 203, 7pm at Ottery St Mary Football Club.  Due to the size of the venue there will be limited places and allocated on a first come first serve basis.  Please do not worry if you cannot attend as there will be other opportunities to engage in these discussions.  To reserve a place please contact: Nicola Webber on 01392 356129 Email: nicola.webber@nhs.net

We are closed for staff training this afternoon

Just a reminder that the practice will be closed this afternoon, Thursday 13th June 2013 for staff training and education.  We will close at 1230 and reopen at 1700.  There will be no access into the practice and our telephone calls will be diverted to Devon Doctors on Call..

Please only telephone if you need urgent medical advice, otherwise we will be pleased to deal with your enquiry when we reopen.

Thank you for your assistance and we apologise for any inconvenience.

We are closing for staff training on 13th June 2013

The practice will be closed on the afternoon of Thursday 13th June 2013 for staff training and education.  We will close at 1230 and reopen at 1700.  There will be no access into the practice and our telephone calls will be diverted to Devon Doctors on Call..

Please only telephone if you need urgent medical advice, otherwise we will be pleased to deal with your enquiry when we reopen.

Thank you for your assistance and we apologise for any inconvenience.

Carers Week Starts 10th June 2013

We can offer lots of support and signposting for Carers, including a free health and well being check.  If you are a carer please contact us for more information and to book your appointment.

What should I do if I am unwell over the bank holiday?

As the bank holiday approaches it is worth thinking about what you would do if you or a member of your family became unwell over the holiday period.  We recommend that you:-

• stock up on over the counter medicines.  Your pharmacist can also give you advice on treatments and products available.
• check you have enough prescription medicine to see you through the holidays and if you are going away pack enough for at least the duration of your holiday. 

If you need medical assistant when we are closed you can:

• phone NHS Direct for medical advice.  Their telephone number is 0845 4647
• pop in to your local pharmacy for advice and over the counter medication
• phone us on 01404 814447 if your problem is urgent.  Your call will be automatically transferred to the out of hours service (Devon Doctors on Call).  To avoid putting undue pressure on this service, please only phone  if your problem cannot wait until we reopen
• phone 999 immediately in the event of a life threatening, medical emergency

Please avoid using emergency/urgent services and hospital A&E departments for routine problems or for problems that can wait until we reopen

We are closed on Monday 27th May 2013 and reopen on Tuesday 28th May 2013.