Abernethy House Surgery

01/03/2025

📢 Make the Most of the NHS App! 📢

Did you know the NHS App makes managing your healthcare easier and more convenient? Here’s what you can do with it:

✅ Access eConsult – Submit an online consultation directly through the app.
✅ Order repeat prescriptions – No need to call or visit the surgery.
✅ View test results – See your results along with GP comments.
✅ Cancel appointments – Free up slots for others if you can’t attend.
✅ Receive messages from your GP – Get updates and important information directly.
✅ Check your medical records – Access past consultations, medications, and vaccinations.

The NHS App is safe, secure, and free to use. Download it today from the App Store or Google Play and take control of your healthcare! 💙

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/

22/02/2025

📄 Requesting Letters from the GP Surgery: What You Need to Know 📄

Some certificates and letters are provided free of charge as part of our NHS contract. Others are classed as private work, requiring the GP’s agreement and a fee to cover the time spent reviewing medical records and ensuring accuracy.

Free Services:
✔ Fit notes (sick notes) – Issued from the second week of illness. The first week should be self-certified by the patient. https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/getting-a-fit-note/
✔ Problem and medication summary from the clinical notes – Available as a printout or through the NHS App.
✔ Subject Access Requests (SARs) – Full or partial copies of medical records are free unless requested frequently.
✔ Hospital letters – Most specialist letters are copied to patients. If you have not received a copy, we can print it for you. These letters can also be downloaded via the NHS App.
✔ Private referral letters – Provided at no charge.

Letters We Do Not Provide:
🚫 Benefits and housing support letters – These do not influence decisions, and we do not issue them. Instead:
- The DWP requests medical information directly from the GP for Universal Credit and PIP at no cost to the patient.
- You can request a free summary (problem list and medications) or a full or partial SAR.
🚫 Fitness assessments for specific jobs – We do not assess fitness for specific jobs, as this is the role of occupational health.
🚫We do not issue fit-to-fly or sports participation letters—these require specialist assessment.

If you’re unsure whether a letter is available or requires a fee, please fill in an administrative eConsult via our website, and we will contact you with information.

01/02/2025

CKD, eGFR, and ACR – What Do These Acronyms Mean? 🤔

Patients with long-term conditions like diabetes and hypertension are recommended to have a kidney function test and a urine test once a year as part of routine monitoring to detect any early signs of kidney problems. ℹ️ CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) ℹ️ is a long-term condition where kidney function gradually declines, often linked to conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and ageing. However, with proper management—including lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring—the progression of CKD can be slowed, helping to preserve kidney function for longer.

Blood tests for 🧪 eGFR (estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) 🧪, a key part of the kidney (renal) function test, measure how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood. Another important test for kidney health is the 🧪 ACR (Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio) 🧪, which detects protein in your urine—an early indicator of kidney damage.

CKD has 🔺 five stages 🔺, determined by eGFR levels, ranging from mild (stage 1) to severe (stage 5, also known as kidney failure). Early detection is crucial to slowing progression and protecting your kidneys.

Keeping your kidneys healthy involves regular check-ups, managing blood pressure and blood sugar, staying well-hydrated, following a balanced diet, and limiting salt intake. If you’ve been diagnosed with CKD, your GP will schedule routine blood and urine ACR tests. How often you need testing depends on the severity of your condition—it could be yearly, every six months, or every three months in severe cases. If necessary, you may also be referred to a specialist for further care.

For more information on kidney health visit:

Kidney Care UK is the UK's leading kidney patient support charity. We exist to ensure that no one faces kidney disease alone.

25/01/2025

📲 Unlock the Power of the NHS App Today! 🔓

Ever wondered what "TATT" or "FIT test" means in your medical notes? With the NHS App, you can access your GP health record, view your test results, and understand these abbreviations.

Here’s what you can do with the NHS App:
💊 Order repeat prescriptions: Request your medications and choose a pharmacy for collection.
📅 Book and manage appointments: Book vaccinations for adults and children, as well as cervical smear tests for women. GP appointments cannot be booked but can be cancelled via the app.
📁 View your GP health record: Check allergies, medications, and test results.

🔑 Getting Started with NHS Login
To use the NHS App, you'll need to set up an NHS login, which requires different levels of identity verification:
✅ Basic Access: Verify your email and phone number.
🔍 Medium Verification: Provide personal details like NHS number, date of birth, and postcode.
🔒 Full Access: Prove your identity with photo ID and a face scan or video recording or link existing GP online service credentials.

📥 Download NHS App:
Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nhs-app/id1388411277
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nhs.online.nhsonline

📲 Take control of your healthcare with the NHS App. Download it today and stay in charge of your health!

18/01/2025

🩺 Understanding and Managing High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Hypertension is called a 'silent killer' because it has no symptoms. Many people don’t realise they have it until it’s detected during a routine check-up. A single high reading doesn’t confirm hypertension. Monitoring it consistently over several days provides a clearer picture. Alternatively, a 24-hour monitor can track blood pressure throughout the day. Regular checks, lifestyle adjustments, and medication when needed are key to maintaining healthy blood pressure.

💡 Headaches and Blood Pressure: 💡 Headaches are not a symptom of high blood pressure unless it reaches dangerous levels (180/120 mmHg or higher). However, taking blood pressure measurements during a headache may show a temporary increase due to pain and stress.

📏 For an accurate blood pressure reading: 📏

🔹 Rest Before Measuring: Sit quietly for at least 5 minutes.

🔹 Proper Arm Position: Keep the cuff and machine at heart level, ideally sitting at a table.

🔹 Measure Both Arms: Read both arms if possible, as results may vary.

🔹 Record Readings: Write them down instead of relying on memory.

💪 Managing blood pressure involves lifestyle changes and, when necessary, medication: 💪

✅ Reduce Salt: Avoid high-sodium and processed foods.

✅ Maintain a Healthy Weight: Eat well and stay active.

✅ Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps lower blood pressure.

✅ Medication: If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medication may be needed. Treatment starts with a low dose and may be adjusted. Some patients need a combination of medicines for better control.

⚠️ Who Needs Strict Control? ⚠️ People with heart disease, kidney disease, or diabetes should aim for stricter blood pressure control to prevent complications.

🩸 Checking Blood Pressure: 🩸 Our surgery has a self-service blood pressure pod (for use only by Abernethy House patients) —please sit for at least 5 minutes before using it. We can also lend our patients a home monitor to check your blood pressure twice daily for 5 to 7 days. We invite high-risk patients for NHS Health Checks, which include a blood pressure assessment. Many pharmacies also offer blood pressure checks. Anyone looking to monitor their blood pressure at home can purchase a machine, but they should ensure it is from a reputable brand and read the instructions carefully before using it.

ℹ️ For more information, visit: ℹ️

NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/high-blood-pressure/

Patient.info: https://patient.info/heart-health/high-blood-pressure-hypertension

Find out about high blood pressure, including how to find out if you have it, what causes it and what you can do to lower it.

11/01/2025

🌐 Understanding eConsult and Total Triage at Abernethy House Surgery 📞

At Abernethy House Surgery, we use the eConsult system to ensure every patient receives the right care from the most appropriate clinician. This includes our GPs, nurses, physician associates, clinical pharmacists, and sometimes local pharmacies.

If all appointments are fully booked, we may advise patients to contact NHS 111 for further guidance.

🔹 How does it work?
1️⃣ eConsult Online: Patients can fill out an online form detailing their symptoms or queries. An experienced clinician reviews each submission, assessing urgency and clinical need.
2️⃣ Phone Assistance: For patients who find eConsult challenging—such as elderly individuals or those without internet access—our staff are trained to complete the eConsult over the phone.
3️⃣ In-person Requests: Patients who walk into the surgery requesting an appointment are provided with a form to fill out, which our staff then transfer into an eConsult on their behalf.

🔹 What happens next?
Every eConsult is triaged by an experienced clinician. Appointments, including emergency slots, are allocated based on clinical priority, not on who contacts us first. This ensures fairness and helps us manage urgent cases effectively.

🔹 Why total triage?
This system, recommended by NHS England, avoids the stress of early-morning phone queues or in-person rushes, ensuring everyone has equal access to care. It is a fair system for elderly patients and those with physical or mental disabilities, ensuring they are not disadvantaged in accessing care.

Our aim is to provide the best possible service to all our patients while ensuring accessibility and fairness. Thank you for your understanding and support!

04/01/2025

🌨️ Stay Safe During the Cold Snap! ❄️
As temperatures drop and possible snow is forecast for this weekend and next week, it’s vital to take extra care, especially if you are older or caring for someone vulnerable. Cold weather can pose serious risks, including falls, illnesses, and increased strain on the heart.

Here are some key tips to keep safe and well:
1. Keep Warm Indoors: Heat your living room or the room you use most during the day to at least 18°C. Keep windows and doors closed to retain heat.

2. Prevent Falls and Fractures: Icy conditions significantly increase the risk of falls, especially among older people, where injuries like fractures tend to be more severe. To stay safe, avoid going out unless absolutely necessary, particularly during early morning or late evening when ice is more likely to form. After snow, exercise caution as melted snow often refreezes into black ice, making surfaces dangerously slippery. Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear and, if safe, clear paths using salt or grit to reduce the risk of slipping.

3. Check on Neighbours: Elderly or vulnerable people may need help with shopping or staying warm. A quick visit or call could make a big difference!

4. Be Prepared: Stock up on essential medicines, groceries, and other supplies to avoid unnecessary trips during icy conditions.

Important Notice: If there is any disruption next week due to weather conditions, and clinicians are delayed or unable to attend the surgery, we will inform patients as soon as possible. Additionally, please be very vigilant while walking down the path leading to the surgery premises, as it may be icy and slippery.

Cold weather doesn’t have to mean poor health and accidents. Let’s look out for each other and stay safe!

28/12/2024

New Year, New Health Goals! 🎉

The festive season is a time of indulgence – rich meals, sweet treats, and perhaps a few extra glasses of wine. While it’s wonderful to enjoy these moments, the start of a new year is a perfect opportunity to refocus on your health and wellbeing.

Here’s how to get back on track after the holidays:

- Stay Active: After a season of relaxation, it’s important to reintroduce regular physical activity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, like walking, cycling, or yoga. Staying active improves both physical and mental health.

- Reassess Alcohol Intake: If you’ve had a few too many festive drinks, consider joining “Dry January” and cutting back. It’s a great way to give your body a break and reset your habits.

- Catch Up on Health Checks: If your GP has contacted you to have a blood test and you didn’t have time yet to do it, now is the time to book it. Early detection and monitoring are key to staying healthy.

- Set SMART Goals: Avoid the disappointment of unrealistic resolutions. Set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals. For example, rather than saying, “I’ll get fit,” try, “I’ll walk for 30 minutes every weekday for the next month.”

- Support Your Mental Health: The shorter days and post-holiday blues can take a toll on your mood. Prioritise self-care, stay connected with loved ones, and reach out if you’re struggling. Our social prescriber can guide you to local mental health resources.

Practical steps you can take:

- Take your medication regularly and book your routine blood test with the hospital if you are due for one.

- Set up achievable goals in the new year.

- Use the NHS app to manage prescriptions, appointments, and access health advice.

- If you have health concerns, use the NHS app to find reliable health information. You can also contact the surgery via eConsult which is triaged by a clinician, and they may guide you to useful resources or book you an appointment with the appropriate healthcare provider.

Let’s work together to make this year one of health and happiness. If you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re here to help!

21/12/2024

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS FOR ABERNETHY HOUSE AND ENFIELD PHARMACIES

ABERNETHY HOUSE SURGERY: will be closed on the following dates:
- Wednesday 25th December 2024 (Christmas Day)
- Thursday 26th December 2024 (Boxing Day)
- Wednesday 1st January 2025 (New Year’s Day)
We will be open as normal on all other days.

If you have a medical problem while we are closed:
- Call 111 for non-emergency medical advice.
- Call 999 in case of a severe or life-threatening medical emergency such as: severe chest pain (possible heart attack), signs of a stroke (use the FAST test: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 999).

PHARMACIES IN ENFIELD OPEN DURING CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

When the surgery is closed, you can visit a pharmacy for minor health concerns. Here are the NHS-commissioned pharmacies in Enfield that will be open on the holiday dates:

Healthfare Pharmacy: Address: 9 Coleman Parade, Southbury Road, Enfield, EN1 1YY. Telephone: 020 8367 5456
Opening Hours:
Christmas Day (25th Dec): 10:00-18:00
Boxing Day (26th Dec): 10:00-14:00
New Year’s Day (1st Jan): 10:00-14:00

Bees Dispensing Chemist: Address: 172 Fore Street, Edmonton, N18 2JB. Telephone: 020 8807 3228
Opening Hours:
Christmas Day (25th Dec): 10:00-18:00
Boxing Day (26th Dec): 12:00-16:00
New Year’s Day (1st Jan): 12:00-16:00

Please note, there may be additional pharmacies open that are not listed here. To check the opening hours of your preferred pharmacy:

Visit: www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-pharmacy or call: NHS 111

Reminder: Some pharmacies may close early on Tuesday 24th December 2024 (Christmas Eve) and Tuesday 31st December 2024 (New Year’s Eve). Always check before visiting.

From all of us at Abernethy House Surgery, we wish all our patients a joyful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

14/12/2024

Did you know your local pharmacy can help with many health concerns, saving you a trip to the GP?

The Pharmacy First service offers quick, professional advice and treatment for a range of issues. Here’s a breakdown of the services:

Services for Acute Problems:

- Minor Ailments: Your pharmacist can provide advice and treatments for common conditions like sore throats, earaches, or hay fever.

- Acute Infections: Treatment for conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women (aged 16-64) and impetigo can be managed directly by your pharmacist.

- Eye Infections: For adults and children over 2, pharmacists can assist with conjunctivitis and other minor eye conditions. You can also use the Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS) for support with conditions such as red or sore eyes, dry eyes, or flashes and floaters. This service is available at participating opticians, providing specialised care for eye-related problems without the need for a GP referral. For more details, visit https://primaryeyecare.co.uk/services/minor-eye-conditions-service/.

- Emergency Contraception: Many pharmacies offer same-day access to emergency contraception without the need for a GP appointment.

Services for Non-Acute Problems:

- Blood Pressure Checks: Pharmacies now offer a hypertension case-finding service, including blood pressure monitoring and advice.

- Contraceptive Advice: Some pharmacies provide ongoing contraceptive services, including re-supplying the pill.

- Health and Lifestyle Advice: Your pharmacist can support smoking cessation, weight management, and healthy living.

Pharmacists are highly trained professionals who can offer expert advice and treatments for many conditions. If you’re unsure whether your issue can be managed at a pharmacy, pop in and ask – they’re here to help!

By choosing Pharmacy First, you can often be seen faster, freeing up GP appointments for more complex needs. For more information, visit the Pharmacy First page on the North Central London ICB website or speak to your local pharmacy team.

07/12/2024

🌬️ Respiratory Tract Infections (RTIs): What You Need to Know 🌬️

RTIs can affect your sinuses, throat, airways, or lungs. Here's a quick guide to symptoms, self-care, and when to seek help:

🤒Common Symptoms:
Cough (with or without mucus) - Sneezing and nasal congestion - Sore throat - Headaches and muscle aches - Breathlessness or wheezing - Chest tightness - Elevated temperature - Feeling unwell.

📅 Most RTIs Resolve in 1-2 Weeks with Self-Care:
Rest and stay hydrated - Enjoy warm lemon and honey drinks (not suitable for babies under 1) - Gargle with warm salty water (adults only) - Sleep with your head elevated to ease breathing - Use pain relievers for fever and discomfort.

➕Pharmacists Can Help:
You can have a consultation with your pharmacist who can recommend decongestants and nasal sprays for symptom relief. https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/how-pharmacies-can-help/

😷 When to See a GP: If symptoms: Worsen or persist beyond 3 weeks. Include severe issues like coughing up blood, high fever, or difficulty breathing.

ℹ Prevention Tips:
Practise good hygiene: cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, wash hands regularly, and dispose of tissues properly.
Stay up to date with vaccinations (e.g., flu and pneumococcal jabs).

📆 ***Important GP Surgery Appointment Reminder***
IF OFFERED A FACE-TO-FACE APPOINTMENT PLEASE ATTEND — A senior clinician triages all appointments, it helps ensure you get the right treatment in one visit! Declining a face-to-face appointment and requiring further review after a telephone consultation results in the use of two appointments instead of one.

For more information visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/respiratory-tract-infection/

Stay healthy and take care! 🌟

30/11/2024

Why Do Doctors Sometimes Run Late?

We understand that waiting for your appointment can be frustrating, and we sincerely apologise if you’ve ever experienced delays when seeing your GP. We want to share some insight into why this sometimes happens.

Each GP appointment is scheduled for 10 minutes, which includes time for examining the patient, discussing treatment options, and writing up notes. While many consultations fit within this timeframe, some appointments turn out to be more complex than anticipated.

Sometimes, a patient may present with what seems like a simple issue, but during the appointment, the doctor might uncover something more serious or time-consuming to manage. In other cases, patients may book an appointment for one issue but raise several concerns during the consultation—often because they haven’t seen the GP for a while. While we understand this, it means the planned appointment time can quickly be exceeded. When triaging eConsults, we do provide longer appointments if clinically indicated, as long as the patient has provided detailed information about their concerns.

Even seemingly minor overruns—an extra 3 or 4 minutes per patient—can add up. By the end of a typical 3-hour surgery, these small delays can result in significant wait times, with the last patient of the session potentially waiting up to an hour.

We are committed to providing the best possible care to all our patients, which sometimes means taking extra time when it is clinically needed. We greatly appreciate your understanding and patience when appointments run late. Please rest assured that we are doing our very best to stay on schedule while giving each patient the attention they deserve.

Thank you for your understanding and support.