Biddulph Valley Surgery

22/12/2025

We would like to congratulate Dr Green, Nurse practitioner Jacky, HCSW Kay, Receptionist Sue, and Nurse Caroline on their Long Service award achievements within the NHS. The team were treated to afternoon tea followed by the presentation of the awards at Uttoxeter racecourse. Well done to you all.😀

22/12/2025

💊⌛️ Run out of your regular prescription and can’t get to your GP? Don’t worry — help is at hand! 🙌

You can request an emergency supply of your usual medication through the NHS 111 online service. It’s quick, secure and available when you need it most. 🌐💙

👉 https://111.nhs.uk/emergency-prescription

This service is ideal if you’ve completely run out of a regular medicine and can’t wait for a routine prescription. Always double-check with your pharmacist if you’re unsure. 🩺✨

19/12/2025

🤧🦠 Cold or flu - knowing the difference might not seem urgent, but it can help you act right. A cold often develops slowly and stays mostly around your nose and throat, while the flu tends to hit fast, affects your whole body and leaves you feeling really unwell.

👉 Check what to expect and when to seek help:
https://patient.info/features/infections/difference-between-cold-and-flu
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold/

Rest well, keep hydrated and if things feel worse than “just a cold”, don’t hesitate to seek advice.

17/12/2025

💊✨ Did you know your local pharmacy can do far more than just hand out prescriptions? Under the Pharmacy First scheme, pharmacists can now help with a range of common conditions — often without needing a GP appointment! 🙌

💬 They can offer advice, treatments and even prescribe for minor illnesses. So next time you’re under the weather, head to your local pharmacy first.

Find out more here:
👉 https://patient.info/features/general-health/pharmacy-first-getting-the-most-from-your-pharmacist
👉 https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy/

Pharmacists are healthcare experts right on your doorstep. 🌟

15/12/2025

15/12/2025

The festive season is a time for fun, family and celebrations - but it’s also easy for drinking habits to creep up. Being mindful can make all the difference to your health and safety.

🎄 Here’s how to keep things balanced:
👉 Tips for drinking sensibly this festive season: https://patient.info/features/healthy-living/how-to-drink-sensibly-over-the-festive-season
🚗 Check if alcohol or medication could affect your ability to drive safely: https://patient.info/doctor/primary-care/fitness-to-drive
💬 Need advice or support? The NHS has great resources: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/alcohol-advice/alcohol-support/

Enjoy the celebrations — just do it safely and stay in control.

12/12/2025

As winter approaches, it’s more important than ever to take action to avoid slips and falls — especially for older adults. 👣❄️

Knowing the risks and making small changes can make a big difference. Check out these helpful guides:
👉 https://patient.info/signs-symptoms/dizziness/prevention-of-falls-in-the-elderly
👉 https://patient.info/features/general-health/step-to-take-this-winter-to-avoid-falls
👉 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/falls/

From improving lighting and removing trip hazards to building strength & balance, it’s all about staying steady and safe. Let’s keep moving with confidence this season. 💪🧤

10/12/2025

🧬💊 Keeping on top of your medicine cabinet and daily medications is more important than you might realise. From having the right medicines at home to organising your routine and checking expiry dates — it all matters.

Check these helpful guides:
👉 https://patient.info/treatment-medication/medicines-to-keep-at-home
👉 https://patient.info/features/treatment-medication/when-did-you-last-check-your-medicine-cabinet
👉 https://patient.info/features/treatment-medication/how-to-manage-your-medications-at-home

Staying organised means you’re ready, safer and more in control of your health. ✅

08/12/2025

🧼✨ Good hand-washing is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself and others from illness.

Whether you’re prepping food, using the loo, blowing your nose or getting home from a trip out — clean hands matter! Check these useful guides:
👉 https://ow.ly/pi2J50XFylW
👉 https://ow.ly/7JEF50XFym0

Take 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice) to lather, rub all surfaces, rinse & dry — and you’ll make a big difference. 💧👌

05/12/2025

👂💡 Ear infections can be painful and frustrating, but knowing the facts can make all the difference! Whether it’s a common middle ear infection or a less common fungal type, it’s helpful to recognise the signs and take steps early.

Check these out:
👉 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ear-infections/
👉 https://patient.info/ears-nose-throat-mouth/earache-ear-pain/fungal-ear-infection

From itching and discharge to muffled hearing, symptoms vary. And when it comes to treatment, you’ll often hear about pain relief and keeping the ear dry.

Remember: if symptoms persist, worsen or include hearing loss, get medical advice. 👍

03/12/2025

💙 Feeling connected and supported matters more than ever. Social isolation can deeply affect mental health, especially for people living with disabilities - but there are ways to stay active, engaged and supported. 🌈✨

Check out these helpful resources for advice on reducing loneliness and staying well:
👉 https://ow.ly/iG4250XzUPn
👉 https://ow.ly/60MI50XzUP6
👉 https://ow.ly/YV5w50XzUOJ

Whether it’s joining a local group, finding an accessible exercise routine or learning what support is available, small steps can make a big difference. 💪💬

01/12/2025

📅 November Appointment Update

In November, 4,514 appointments were booked, but unfortunately 88 patients did not attend their appointment.

Missed appointments mean longer waiting times and fewer available slots for others who need care. If you can’t make your appointment, please let the Practice know as soon as possible so the slot can be offered to someone else. 💙

Thank you for your support.