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NORTHGATE MEDICAL PRACTICE
WITH CHARTHAM AND BLEAN SURGERIES
PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP NEWSLETTER Spring 2025
Diabetes Support Group
The Diabetes Support Group is underway, and we have set up our first meeting. On November 20th, Amanda Bodemeaid from the Kent Association for the Blind visited Northgate. She explained why eye health is crucial for those with diabetes. Amanda also showed how KAB resources can help improve quality of life. The meeting was held at lunchtime at the Northgate Medical Practice. Future meeting dates and times will be posted on the PPG banner in reception and on the Practice website. If you'd like to help organise the Diabetes Support Group, please email alison.clarke72@nhs.com.
Walk and Talk Group
The Walking Group last met in November and will resume in March. The next walk is on Thursday, March 6th, starting from the Medical Practice at 10.30. Recent walks have taken us to Dane John, Westgate Gardens, St Augustine’s, and St Martins. We walk at a gentle pace and usually stop for coffee, lasting about an hour and a half. Details will be displayed on the PPG banner in Reception. You are very welcome to join us for the next walk.
Shortages of Prescription Drugs
This is a national issue, highlighted by local pharmacy closures, which have now been resolved. If you're affected, remember not to stop taking your medication. Contact the surgery or pharmacist for alternatives. The pharmacist will help find another source or suggest alternatives if available. Also, if you have a written prescription, you can choose your pharmacist.
Vaccinations: COVID and Flu
As of January 2025, the current phase of COVID and Flu vaccinations has ended, and a new programme is starting. The Spring phase begins on April 1st. The eligible groups are:
- Adults aged 75 and over
- Residents in a care home for older adults
- Individuals aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed
Private Travel and Health Vaccination Clinics
Due to high demand, private COVID and all travel vaccinations, including RSV, pneumonia, yellow fever, dengue fever, and whooping cough, are available year-round at Northgate Medical Practice. For more information and to book an appointment, please fill out the form at www.canterburyvaccinationsite.co.uk.
New Specialist Service at Northgate Medical Practice
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD or Wet AMD)
Have you been diagnosed with WAMD? If you're receiving treatment at a local clinic, you can transfer your care to Northgate Medical Practice. This service is for East Kent patients already diagnosed with Wet AMD and suitable for management in a community setting. We offer care for WAMD in Canterbury with a dedicated eye team on Saturdays. Plus, we provide free on-site parking.
For more information, contact our Clinical Services Team at 01227 208556, Option 4.
Important Appointment Reminders
- Cancel Unneeded Appointments: If you no longer need your appointment, please cancel it. This helps free up slots for others.
- e-Consult Requests: If you secure a regular appointment after requesting an e-Consult, please cancel the e-Consult. This prevents wasting valuable appointment slots.
- Blood Test Tips: We have daily appointments for blood tests. To ensure accurate results, drink plenty of fluids before your appointment.
- Shingles Vaccination: If you're over 70 and received a text from us, please book your shingles vaccination.
Staff Changes
New Staff:
- GPs - Dr Tamara Common and Dr Oliver Austin.
- Care Navigators – Nicola, Jenson, Gloria, and Liz.
Pastures New: Recently left NMP – Dr Sean Hughes, Care Navigators Sue and Megan, and HCA Lauren.
Do you have the NHS App?
The NHS App is a useful free app. Search for NHS App to download it. After downloading, set up a login with your email, phone number (mobile or landline), NHS number, and personal details. You can then access your health records and available services.
- You can order repeat prescriptions
- Make appointments
- Book vaccinations
- Access NHS 111 for advice and help.
To contact the Patients Participation Group: Email: alison.clarke72@nhs.com