Coleridge Medical Centre's activity during the first four months of Covid-19 pandemic

Face coverings in Public Settings

We are aware that some patients might be understandably anxious about the Government’s recent announcements around the use of face masks in various public settings.

GPs are unfortunately not in a position to provide individual risk assessments or letters for patients who feel that they should be exempt from wearing a face mask, whether in regard to their use on public transport or in any other setting as required by legislation.

Devon Local Medical Committee has therefore prepared this guidance note as the statutory body that advises and supports all GPs and practice teams across Devon.

The Government guidance on exemptions suggests there is no requirement for evidence for exemption therefore it is sufficient for an individual to self-declare this.

In the case of face mask use on public transport, the responsibility for issuing exemptions lies with the transport provider not your GP. Similarly, practices are under no obligation to provide letters of support for anyone who does not fall under the list of exemptions but considers them to have another reason to be exempted.

Government advice on the use of face coverings on public transport can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-safer-travel-guidance-for-passengers#face-coverings.

Some people don’t have to wear a face covering including for health, age or equality reasons. Some staff may not wear a face covering if it is not required for their job.

We hope that this guidance provides some reassurance for you on this issue.

User Video for New Intercom System

We have implemented new measures in the Practice to ensure both staff and patient safety.

When you arrive at the Practice, please pass your hand over the sensor to call reception. A member of staff will then speak to you through the intercom to verify your details and ask a few screening questions.

Once these have been completed, and if you have a pre-booked appointment, you will be admitted into the building and directed to the waiting room.

Beat The Heat- Coping with heat and COVID-19

TALKWORKS

Is the way that you are feeling affecting your daily life? Are you struggling to cope, feeling low, anxious or overwhelmed by your thoughts and feelings? Are you living with a long term health condition that is making you feel tired, frustrated and worried? You are not alone and we can help.

TALKWORKS is a free, confidential, NHS talking therapy service helping you to feel better by giving you the tools and techniques to improve your mental and physical wellbeing.

You can self-refer direct to TALKWORKS:

Call 0300 555 3344 or complete the online form on their website

 

A massive thank you from the staff at Coleridge Medical Centre!

The new Test and Trace Service.

A final thank you to Carers for Carer's Week

Online courses for parents and parents-to-be.

Please wear a face covering before entering the surgery

image credit: Public Health England

Coleridge Medical Centre are now kindly asking patients to please apply a face covering before entering the surgery.

We have a responsibility to our staff and to our patients, and a face covering is an added precaution that may have some benefit in reducing the likelihood that a person with the infection passes it on. Face coverings can help in reducing the spread of droplets; it stops them from leaving the mouth and nose, and reduces the size of area in which they spread.

Please note that medical and surgical masks are not necessary, as these still need to be prioritised for clinical staff working in high risk areas. Instead, we encourage patients who do not already have a mask, to look at the official guidance on how to make one at home with items that you may already have.

It is important to remember to refrain from touching your face when wearing the mask, as contaminated droplets can be picked up from surfaces by touch. Face coverings are not a replacement for social distancing, and we also strongly encourage washing your hands regularly