Problems with an NHS supplier, Roche, has led to a temporary shortage in some of the chemicals we use to process blood test results. This is a national problem and Roche is working hard to resolve this.
We are doing everything we can to reduce the impact on our patients, but unfortunately, this is making it difficult to complete some blood tests at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT).
Temporarily, we are continuing to prioritise clinically urgent tests, but this this means that if you are having a regular blood test it may be delayed. We are very sorry about this.
We have the following advice for our patients:
- If you have been told your blood test is urgent, please attend your booked appointment without delay
- If you have been told your blood test is not urgent, please try and re-book in around two weeks’ time.
- If you are not sure whether your test is urgent or not, please get in touch with the GP or consultant who asked you to have the test
We appreciate this is frustrating for patients and we’re grateful for everyone’s patience while we work hard to resolve this issue. We will keep everyone updated.
We understand this may cause some concern and worry – if any patients would like to talk us, we would encourage them to get in directly with the practice.
At the end of May 2019, Orchard Medical Practice will be taking over the management of Dr Solway and Mallick Practice.
This means that both practices will use the same reception desk located the front entrance of the building and staff from both practices will be able to book appointments and access information related to patients registered with both practices.
Whilst things might look a little different at reception, this will not change your ability to book appointments and see your doctor in the usual way.
Staff from both practices are trained in maintaining confidentiality and will work together to ensure that your health record remains secure and will still only be accessed by or shared with staff that need it for your care.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Andrea Clarke who will be happy to speak with you. You can find the Privacy Policy below for Orchard Medical Practice and On Dr Solway & Dr Mallick Practice website.
Self Referrals
Did you know you can self-refer to a number of services without seeing your GP?
These include, physiotherapy, podiatry, quitting smoking, getting active, losing weight, sexual health, contraceptives, anxiety/stress/low mood. Visit our self-referral page to find out more: Self-referrals
To view our practice leaflet please click here: Practice leaflet
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The Cancer Care Navigators are here to help people get the right help and support with all non-medical needs.
They are trained staff working alongside Ipswich and Colchester hospital and with the local GP surgeries to support newly diagnosed patients, their families and carers with practical, financial and emotional concerns they might have.
We are able to offer practical support and advice, which might include:
- Helping patients improve their health and wellbeing
- Pointing patients towards relevant cancer support groups and courses
- Referring patients for emotional support where needed, and identifying who may be best placed to support them
- Advising patients on how to talk to family and friends about cancer
- Linking patients in with services and support in their local area
- Facilitating access to support for any practical needs
Supporting patients with the transition back to daily life, as their care moves from a hospital setting to a community setting.
You can self-refer by calling Colchester on 01206 487288 or Ipswich on 01473 702125 or you can email cancercarenavigators@esneft.nhs.uk
Website https://www.esneft.nhs.uk/service/cancer/cancer-care-navigators/
Medical Equipment Every Home Should Have
In order of importance:
- Thermometer
- Blood pressure monitor (upper arm only)
- Pulse oximeter
Available from high st chemists and on-line
Other than the essential thermometer, there are two pieces of medical equipment that we recommend for the home: a Blood Pressure Monitor and Pulse Oximeter. These three machines together will give the vital information needed to help your doctor advice you should you become ill.
https://www.healthysuffolk.org.uk/projects/keep-calm
My Care Record enables health and care professionals to access information about you to improve your care.
Providing you with:
• Better co-ordinated and seamless care
• Quicker diagnosis and treatment
• Less paperwork and less repetition
• Fewer unnecessary clinical tests
• More accurate prescriptions
• More time to spend on clinical care
Our organisation is part of the My Care Record approach which is supporting the work of health and care organisations across the East of England as they respond to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. For example, we are working to make sure doctors, nurses and co-ordination staff at places you may receive advice or treatment can see important information from your patient record. This could include NHS treatment centres such as the London NHS Nightingale Hospital. This will make it easier and faster for them to deliver effective care.
For more information, including the Privacy Notice, please visit the My Care Record website