STAFF TRAINING
Please remember that your local pharmacy is available to give help and advice for minor ailments, and NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, by phone and online. If your problem is of a life threatening nature please dial 999 or attend A and E. We will re-open on Wednesday 08/03/23 at 08:00.
STREP A OUTBREAK
Many of you who are reading this will be parents, and will be worried about the recently reported cases of Group A streptococcus (GAS) across the UK (Strep A).
Strep A is a common bacteria and many of us can carry it without feeling any symptoms, however, in rare and unfortunate cases it can make people very ill.
The most serious infections linked to GAS come from a very specific group, known as iGAS. This infection is caused by bacteria getting into parts of the body it is not normally found, like the lungs or bloodstream. There are rare cases of iGAS that can be fatal.
The bacteria is spread through contact with an infected person and can be passed on through coughs and sneezes or from a wound.
Investigations into the recent rise in numbers have started, though currently there is no evidence that there is a new strain circulating. The increase is possibly due to high amounts of bacteria circulation.
Do not hesitate to use the link below to find out information as to when to contact your GP or more seriously A&E.
Home :: West Yorkshire Healthier Together (wyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk)
Important information about online access to patient records
The NHS wants to give people better ways to see their personal health information online. We know that people want to be able to access their health records. It can help you see test results faster. It also lets you read and review notes from your appointments in your own time.
From 1 November 2022, some patients over the age of 16 may be able to see new information from your doctor (GP) on your online account, though the NHS app, website or another secure record access app. This information may include notes from your appointment as well as test results and letters.
You may not be able to view this information at times; this will depend on your practice policies and security systems. In addition, before giving access to records, your doctor may want to talk to you first, for example, about test results or to make sure that having access is of benefit to you, as there may be sensitive information on your record. They may also want to talk to patients who might benefit from support to make a decision about access to their records. If you have any concerns or if you need support or more information, please talk to practice staff or your doctor.
These changes only apply to people with online accounts. If you do not want an online account, you can still access your health records by requesting this information through reception. The changes also only apply to personal information about you. If you are a carer and would like to see information about someone you care for, speak to reception staff.
It’s very important that you protect your login details to the NHS App, website or other online services. Don’t share your password with anyone as they will then have access to your personal information. You should also make sure you log off as soon as you have finished viewing your record, as this may not happen automatically for some apps.
If you do not want to see your health record, or if you would like more information about these changes, please speak to your doctor or practice staff.
Linking Leeds Patient information
Your Linking Leeds Wellbeing Co-ordinator is available for telephone appointments. Linking Leeds can link you with services to improve your mental health, social networks, financial and housing needs. To book an appointment or discuss Linking Leeds you can contact us on 0113 336 7612 or complete our online introduction form https://www.commlinks.co.uk/?service=linking-leeds
Citizen Advice Leeds provides free, confidential and independent advice on a wide range of subjects, including benefits, tax credits, debt, housing and employment. Face to face services are currently closed; however, help is available Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm:
* 0113 344 8367 - for professionals supporting patients/service users and for clients accessing mental health, GP and public health services.
* 0113 223 4400 - public line. If there's no answer, leave a message and they'll call back.
DE-COMMISSIONING OF FAX MACHINE
As fax machines will no longer be used after April 2020, we will be de-commissioning our fax on the 01.08.2019. Please contact us via email - Windmillhealthcentre@nhs.net. If an urgent response is required please also contact the practice by phone (0113) 2733733.