Information for patients - update - as at 2 March
COVID-19 Mass Vaccination Programme
We continue to receive many calls from categories of patients who will be vaccinated via the mass vaccination programme. We would politely ask you to avoid calling the practice for these purposes as all the information on vaccines, invitations and appointment and leaflets can be found on NHS Inform https://www.nhsinform.scot/covid-19-vaccine We need to keep our phone lines free for patients who are unwell and needing medical care.
For patients who will be vaccinated by the mass clinics you will be contacted directly by NHS Scotland. The practice cannot answer any questions about your appointment and we have no influence over appointments as we are not involved in this part of the programme.
If you think you should have received a letter by this date or you have lost your appointment letter please see https://www.nhsinform.scot/covid-19-vaccine/invitations-and-appointments/missing-appointment-details
If you need to re-arrange your appointment, have received an appointment and are housebound so cannot attend it or you would like to opt out of receiving a vaccination please see https://www.nhsinform.scot/covid-19-vaccine/invitations-and-appointments/rearrange-or-opt-out-of-your-coronavirus-vaccination-appointment
If you have a general query about the COVID-19 vaccine, please look on the NHS Inform website http://www.nhsinform.scot/covid19vaccine or call the national helpline on 0800 030 8013. This is open from 8.00am to 8.00pm, 7 days a week.
Practice Vaccination Programme
We had another successful vaccination clinic at the weekend vaccinating a further 176 patients. On Monday 22 February we completed the vaccinating programme that we are responsible for in the practice. That is - patients aged 75+ and those in the official shielding category. Every patient has either been contacted or their current situation assessed.
98% of patients in these groups have been vaccinated either in the practice or via the Community Vaccination Team. There has been no wastage of doses in practice clinics. Through some very hard work we have been able to find patients at short notice to use every dose we have had available.
For those patients we have not be able to contact or whose particular circumstances mean that they have not been able to receive their vaccination at the present time, they will be followed up by the Health Board and vaccinated at an alternative venue. Any patient in this category will be contacted directly by the Health Board.
We are awaiting final guidance re second doses and will contact relevant patients in due course.
We wish to thank every single patient, family member or carer who has attended and helped us to have these successful clinics. It has been a tremendous effort on the part of everyone involved.
Handicabs are delighted to share that they will be offering FREE transport for people with mobility challenges to get their vaccine.
You do not need to be already registered with HcL already.
Any person who has challenges with getting out and about due to age, disability, heath issues (short-term or long-term), additional support needs or geographic remoteness is eligible to use the service.
Bookings are subject to availability so call the relevant office as soon as you have your appointment and they will do their very best to help get you to your appointment and home safely.
Please note you will need to register to use this service but it is quick and free.
West Lothian - 01506 633953
Edinburgh / Midlothian / East Lothian - 0131 447 9949
Dial-A-Ride Update
Following the announcement on 04/01/2021 by the Scottish Government, we can confirm that Dial-A-Ride is operational and can take you to Hospital and other medical appointments, to shops and to funerals, if required.
Just give either office above a call to book.
If you have or think you have coronavirus symptoms
Please see the NHS Inform website for the most up to date guidance CORONAVIRUS ADVICE
If you have developed symptoms (however mild), stay at home for 10 days from the start of your symptoms and arrange to be tested. Do not go to your GP, pharmacy or hospital.
You should remain at home until you get the result of the test, and then follow the advice you will be given based on the result.
Read the NHS Inform stay at home guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection.
When to get help
Only phone 111 if:
your symptoms worsen during home isolation, especially if you’re in a high or extremely high-risk group
breathlessness develops or worsens, particularly if you’re in a high or extremely high-risk group
your symptoms haven’t improved in 10 days
If you have a medical emergency, phone 999 and tell them you have coronavirus symptoms.
RIGHT CARE, RIGHT PLACE - GETTING THE BEST HELP
The way patients access urgent care has changed due to coronavirus and if you use the NHS wisely this winter you can get help quickly, safely and as close to home as possible.
To protect yourselves and the NHS, it's important you know how to get the right care, in the right place.
For full information please see the NHS Inform website Right Care, Right Place
Phone NHS 24 first on 111
If you think you need to visit an Emergency Department (A&E), but it's not life threatening, or you think you need to visit a Minor Injury Unit call NHS 24 on 111 first, day or night.
In an emergency always call 999 or go to your local A&E.
NHS 24 will direct you to the right care in the right place. This might include self-care, local pharmacy, GP or dental practice, optician or a minor injuries video consultation with Call MIA.
If you need A&E or a Minor Injury service you may be given a telephone or video appointment or a suitable time to attend hospital safely in person.
You can also continue to access healthcare information and resources on the NHS inform website, access advice at your local pharmacy through Pharmacy First and contact your local GP practice during normal opening hours for urgent and routine care.
These new measures will help to keep everyone safe and well and to follow coronavirus guidelines.
Accessing care services
Everyone is now being asked to:
- Visit NHS inform for advice on common symptoms, guidance for self-help and where to go if further medical care is needed;
- Contact your local GP practice during the day for an appointment or over the phone advice;
- Contact your local pharmacy for advice through Pharmacy First;
- Call 111 day or night when they think they need A&E, but it is not life-threatening;
- Call 111 to arrange a consultation with Call MIA, our video call service for minor injuries including sprains, cuts, burns and suspected broken bones or arms and legs or for an appointment at a Minor Injury Unit;
- Call 111 and select the Mental Health Hub to access mental health advice and guidance or call the Breathing Space telephone helpline on 0800 83 85 87;
- Call 111 or use NHS inform out of hours when they are too ill to wait for their GP practice to open, or for worsening symptoms of COVID-19
- Always dial 999 or attend A&E in a life-threatening emergency
Accessibility and More information
If you use a textphone you can phone NHS 24's 111 services (18001 111).
If you are deaf but want to use the phone service you can use the ContactSCOTLAND-BSL interpreting video relay service
KEEPING MENTALLY HEALTHY
NHS inform has a lot of resources to help with your mental health, whether you're looking for advice, information, local support, or ideas for improving your wellbeing.
Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
NHS Inform - You Matter, We Care
Tips for mental wellbeing whilst staying at home Mental wellbeing tips
Help with anxiety videos and resources Anxiety videos and resources
Mind UK Help with your wellbeing whilst at home Wellbeing whilst you are at home
Young minds - how to talk to children about coronavirus for parents Tips for talking to children about coronavirus
Podcast from British GP, Dr Chatterjee, about coronavirus related anxiety and tips for managing this https://drchatterjee.com/coronavirus-special-how-to-manage-anxiety-in-the-face-of-a-global-pandemic/
COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES - UPDATE
If you are wondering how health services are different as a result of coronavirus or which service is right for you please see NHS Inform - Community Health
(Site updated 02/03/2021)