The Culverhay Surgery
The Culverhay Surgery
Wotton-Under-Edge
Gloucestershire, GL12 7LS
Telephone: 01453 843 893
Dispensary: 01453 844 748
Fax:
01453 521 557
Website
www.culverhaysurgery.com
When the surgery is closed call 01453 843 252
The Culverhay Surgery
We are a group practice providing traditional family medicine to a high standard in our own
purpose-built surgery.Our website has been designed to provide clear and concise help and give
our patients the information they require in an easy and convenient format. It has been built with
the patient’s needs at the forefront of everything, from checking surgery times to letting us
know what you think of us. The technology also means you can now do a lot of things from the
comfort of your home such as order a repeat prescription or booking an appointment.
Proposed closure of the Practice Branch Surgeries at
Wickwar and Hawkesbury
For more information please follow this link Branch Surgery Closure
Patient Survey (This survey is now closed and the results are available) Survey Results
(www.mysurgeryoffice.co.uk/psurvey.aspx?p=246231&v=L84027)
Flu Vaccination appointments
Please contact the surgery on 01453 843893 after 12:30 pm to book your appointment
Online Services Now Available
Patients of the Culverhay Surgery can now book and cancel appointments and also order repeat
prescriptions securely online using 'SystmOnline'. which is a web-based module provided by
our computer supplier TPP. There is also now a free SystmOnline App for iPhones and iPads.
You will need to register to use 'SystmOnline' at the practice where you will be supplied with a
username and first password (which you can then update after your first log-in). When
registering you will need to provide photographic ID to verify your identity for security
purposes.
Illness or Injury? Not Sure where to turn? Get Advice
Your essential guide is now available on
App ASAP Glos NHS
Search www.asapglos.nhs.uk (www.asapglos.nhs.uk/)
Ask NHS111
Pharmacy Pop in
The Culverhay Surgery
CQC Inspection Results - April 2015
The Care Quality Commission (CQC), which is an independent regulator of health and adult
social care in England, has completed its inspection of the Culverhay Surgery. These inspections
are used to make sure that health services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate and
high-quality care.
The Culverhay Surgery report is now available on the CQC website (www.cqc.org.uk/location/1542890220) .
Opening Times
08:00 - 20:00
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Monday
Thursday
08:00 - 18:00
Afternoon
08:00 - 13:00
09:00 - 11:00
16:30 - 18:00
08:00 - 18:00
Morning
Doctors' Surgery Times
* Occasionally there are also
appointments available between
14:00 and 15:30.
Friday
Tuesday
09:00 - 11:00
08:00 - 18:00
16:30 - 18:00
Weekend
Wednesday
Thursday *
Monday
Friday *
Tuesday
09:00 - 11:00
closed
Morning
09:00 - 11:00
08:30 - 12:00
09:00 - 11:00
08:30 - 12:00
closed
Afternoon
16:30 - 18:00
13:30 - 20:00
16:30 - 18:00
15:30 - 17:45
Wednesday
08:30 - 12:00
closed
Nurses' Surgery Times
Branch Surgeries
We hold two branch surgeries, one in
Wickwar and one in Hawkesbury
Upton:

Wickwar Community
Centre, Avon Crescent - Open
08:30 - 12:00
13:30 - 15:30
Friday
Mondays (except public holidays)
from 12:00.
closed
closed
Weekend

Hawkesbury Upton.
Bethesda Chapel, Park Street - Open Wednesdays from 12:30
Thursday
08:30 - 12:00
13:30 - 17:30
Dispensary
The dispensary is open Monday to Friday between 09:00 - 13:00 and 15:00 - 18:00 with the
exception of Wednesday when it is closed from 13:00 onwards.
When We Are Closed
If you require urgent medical attention when the surgery is closed during the out-of-hours
periods which are 18:30 - 08:00 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 13:00 - 08:00
Wednesday and 18:30 Friday to 08:00am Monday (over the weekend).
This is extended to cover Bank Holidays as necessary.
Please telephone the surgery on the usual number of 01453 843252. Your call will then be
diverted to the out-of-hours service.
Out-of-hours services are generally busy so please think carefully before asking to see a doctor
and only do so if you genuinely cannot wait until the surgery re-opens.
In a genuine emergency you should call 999. Chest pains and / or shortness of breath
constitute an emergency.
THE SURGERY WILL BE CLOSED ALL DAY ON THE FOLLOWING
DATES
Friday 3rd April 2015 - Good Friday
Monday 6th April 2015 - Easter Monday
Monday 4th May 2015 - Bank Holiday
Monday 25th May 2015 - Bank Holiday
Monday 31st August 2015 - Bank Holiday
Friday 25th December 2015 - Christmas Day
Monday 28th December 2015 - Bank Holiday
Friday 1st January 2016 - New Years Day
Appointments
Patients are seen by appointment only. A routine appointment is for 10 minutes so please let the
receptionist know if you think you will need longer with the doctor.
Five minute emergency (short notice) appointments are available every day at 11:00. These
appointments are for acute conditions which really cannot wait for a routine appointment.
For emergency short notice and routine appointments please telephone the surgery on 01453
843 893.
Medical Emergencies
If you have a medical emergency please call 01453 843 252. The receptionist will take the
details and inform a doctor. Outside normal surgery hours your call will be automatically
diverted to the out-of-hours service.
Cancellations
If you cannot attend an appointment for any reason please inform us as soon as possible in order
for us to give the slot to someone else.
Home Visits
Whilst we encourage our patients to come to the surgery, where we have the proper equipment
and facilities available, we do appreciate this is not always possible. In this respect, if you do
need a home visit, you can help us by calling 01453 843 893 before 11:00.
You may only request a home visit if you are housebound or are too ill to visit the practice. Your
GP will only visit you at home if they think that your medical condition requires it and will also
decide how urgently a visit is needed. Please bear this in mind and be prepared to provide
suitable details to enable the doctor to schedule house calls
You can also be visited at home by a community nurse if you are referred by your GP. You
should also be visited at home by a health visitor if you have recently had a baby or if you are
newly registered with a GP and have a child under five years.
Sickness Certificates
You do not require a doctor's sickness certificate for any illness lasting seven days or less. Your
employer may however require you to complete a self-certification form (SC2) which is
available from your employer or on the HMRC website (www.hmrc.gov.uk/forms/sc2.pdf) .
Evidence that you are sick
If you are sick for more than seven days, your employer can ask you to give them some form of
medical evidence to support payment of SSP (statutory sick pay).
It is up to your employer to decide whether you are incapable of work. A medical certificate,
now called a 'Statement of Fitness for Work’ (see below) from your doctor is strong evidence
that you are sick and would normally be accepted, unless there is evidence to prove otherwise.
You could also provide evidence from someone who is not a medical practitioner, e.g. a dentist.
Your employer will decide whether or not this evidence is acceptable. If your employer has any
doubts, they may still ask for a medical certificate from your GP.
Statement of Fitness for Work - ’Fit Note'
The 'fit note' was introduced on 6 April 2010. With your employer's support, the note will help
you return to work sooner by providing more information about the effects of your illness or
injury.
For more information see the DirectGov website
(www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/Illorinjured/
DG_175850) (where this information was sourced)
Repeat Prescriptions
Patients on regular medication can arrange to order repeat prescriptions, usually on a monthly
basis, from the dispensary.
You can order your repeat prescription in a number of ways:


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By bringing your verbal or written request into the surgery.
By emailing: culverhayrepeats@nhs.net
By faxing to 01453 521557.
Ordering online via the link at the top of this page. New users are required to complete a
simple registration.
Regretfully we cannot take orders for repeat prescriptions over the telephone.
Medication Reviews
Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner or practice nurse at
least once a year to review these regular medications and notification should appear on your
repeat slip. Please ensure that you book an appropriate appointment to avoid unnecessary delays
to further prescriptions.
Please allow two full working days for prescriptions to be processed and remember to take
weekends and bank holidays into account.
Dispensing
We are able to dispense medications to all our patients who live more than ONE mile from a
chemist. We are not able to dispense to the local community but we can arrange for your
prescription to be delivered to the local chemist.
We provide a medication delivery service to the following villages. When you order your repeat
prescription, please let the dispenser know if you would like to use the free delivery service.






Hawkesbury Upton Post Office - Tuesday
Kingswood Post Office - Wednesday
Cromhall Post Office - Wednesday
Wickwar Post Office - Wednesday
North Nibley Post Office - Friday
Charfield Post Office - Friday
The dispensary is open:
09:00 - 13:00 Monday to Friday
15:00 - 18:00 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Friday
The dispensary is closed between 13:00 and 15:00 with the exception of Wednesday when it
closes at13:00 for the rest of the day.
Prescriptions Charges and Exemptions
Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying
charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).
The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought
it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription
prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.
NHS charges
These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales
prescriptions are free of charge.



Prescription (per item): £8.20
12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £104.00
3-month PPC: £29.10
If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 15 items
in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.


Telephone advice and order line 0845 850 0030
General Public - Buy or Renew a PPC On-line
There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website
(www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcosts/Pages/Prescriptioncosts.aspx)
Please allow 48 hours, excluding weekends and Bank Holidays, for your request to be processed.
Any problems please telephone the surgery.
Clinics & Services
Clinics & Services
Amongst our many services we offer:
Antenatal
Thursdays 13:00 – 16:00
Full pregnancy care is available at the surgery. In nearly all cases the doctors and midwife will
carry out the majority of your antenatal care in the practice with just two or three visits to the
hospital clinic.
Asthma
Tuesdays 08:30 – 10:00 and 15:30 – 17:30, Alternate Fridays 11:40 – 13:00
Asthmatic patients are encouraged to attend this clinic at least annually to monitor their condition
and to ensure compliance and understanding of their medication.
Child Health & Immunisation
Tuesdays 09:00 – 12:00
Regular checks on development and immunisations for under-fives are carried out by the doctor,
Health Visitor and practice nurse. It is very important that your children are vaccinated against
childhood diseases.
Diabetes
Tuesdays 09:00 – 12:00
Diabetic patients should attend this clinic on a regular basis. The clinic is run by our Diabetic
Specialist nurse, Katharine Austin. If you require information regarding your glucose tolerance
test an information sheet can be downloaded from here.
Family Planning
All the doctors offer contraceptive advice at routine appointments. We also offer a coil fitting
service and emergency contraception service.
Cervical Smears
We offer all women between the ages of 25 and 65 the opportunity to have a cervical smear test
every 3 to 5 years to help detect any cell changes in the cervix which could possibly develop into
cancer. Test results are sent to you within 6 weeks.
Minor Surgery
To avoid having to attend hospital, we are pleased to be able to offer an in-house minor surgery
service for procedures such as in-growing toenails, removal of lumps and bumps, joint injections,
gynaecology procedures such as coil fittings, and endometrial biopsies.
NHS Health Check
Free nurse-run health check for those aged 40 to 75. Please read our leaflet here: Health Check
Leaflet.
Phlebotomy
The Phlebotomist is available, by appointment only, to take blood samples as requested by the
doctors and nurses.
If you have been asked to have a fasting blood test (eg fasting cholesterol, fasting blood sugar)
please ensure that you fast from 10.00pm the previous evening. However, water may be
consumed as required.
Smoking Cessation
Please ring for an appointment with one of our three practice nurses who are all trained in
smoking cessation
Non-NHS Services
Non-NHS Services
Some services provided are not covered under our contract with the NHS and therefore attract
charges. Examples include the following:

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



Medicals for pre-employment, sports and driving requirements (HGV, PSV etc.)
Insurance claim forms
Passport signing
Prescriptions for taking medication abroad
Private sick notes
Vaccination certificates
The fees charged are based on the British Medical Association (BMA) suggested scales and our
reception staff will be happy to advise you about them along with appointment availability.
Test Results
Test Results
The results of your blood test should be ready within a couple of days. The nurse will tell you if
it is likely to be longer.
Please telephone the surgery on 01453 843893 after midday to receive your results. If you call
before midday, you will be asked to call back.
Please note that we do have a strict policy regarding confidentiality and data protection. In this
respect we will only give out results to the person they relate to unless that person has given prior
permission for their release or if they are not capable of understanding them.
Blood Tests
Blood Tests
A blood test is when a sample of blood is taken for testing in a laboratory. Blood tests have a
wide range of uses and are one of the most common types of medical test. For example, a blood
test can be used to:



assess your general state of health
confirm the presence of a bacterial or viral infection
see how well certain organs, such as the liver and kidneys, are functioning
A blood test usually involves the phlebotomist taking a blood sample from a blood vessel in your
arm. and the usual place for a sample is the inside of the elbow or wrist, where the veins are
relatively close to the surface. Blood samples from children are most commonly taken from the
back of the hand. The child's hand will be anaesthetised (numbed) with a special cream before
the sample is taken.
You can find out more about blood tests, their purpose and the way they are performed on the
NHS Choices website.
X-Ray
X-Ray
An X-ray is a widely used diagnostic test to examine the inside of the body. X-rays are a very
effective way of detecting problems with bones, such as fractures. They can also often identify
problems with soft tissue, such as pneumonia or breast cancer.
If you have a X-ray, you will be asked to lie on a table or stand against a surface so that the part
of your body being X-rayed is between the X-ray tube and the photographic plate.
An X-ray is usually carried out by a radiographer, a healthcare professional who specialises in
using imaging technology, such as X-rays and ultrasound scanners.
You can find out more about x-ray tests, how they are performed, their function and the risks by
visiting the NHS Choices website (www.nhs.uk/conditions/x-ray/Pages/Introduction.aspx) .
Registration
New Patient Registration
We take patients from a wide geographical area around Wotton-under-Edge,
Gloucestershire.
New patients are required to complete form GMS1. Once completed this can be brought in or
sent to the surgery. You can download a copy of the form from the above "Registering Online"
tab, as well as an Organ Donor Registration form. The Health Authority requires that all new
patients registering with the practice must produce proof of identity and residence. We
therefore need visual identification such as a passport or photographic driving licence along with
a bill or statement confirming address (e.g. credit card or bank statement, council tax or utility
bill). Please note, only original documents are acceptable for identification purposes.
Privacy Statement
All patients can expect that their personal information will not be disclosed without their
permission (except in the most exceptional circumstances when disclosure is required when
somebody is at grave risk of serious harm).We need to hold personal information about you on
our computer system and in our paper records to help us to look after your health needs, and your
doctor is responsible for their accuracy and safe-keeping. Please help to keep your record up to
date by informing us of any changes to your circumstances.
Doctors and staff in the practice have access to your medical records to enable them to do their
jobs. From time to time information may be shared with others involved in your care if it is
necessary. Anyone with access to your record is properly trained in confidentiality issues and is
governed by both a legal and contractual duty to keep your details private.
All information about you is held securely and appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent
accidental loss.
In some circumstances we may be required by law to release your details to statutory or other
official bodies, for example if a court order is presented, or in the case of public health issues. In
other circumstances you may be required to give written consent before information is released –
such as for medical reports for insurance, solicitors etc.
To ensure your privacy, we will not disclose information over the telephone or fax unless we are
sure that we are talking to you. Information will not be disclosed to family, friends, or spouses
unless we have prior written consent, and we do not leave messages with others.
You have a right to see your records if you wish. Please ask at reception if you would like further
details. An appointment will be required. In some circumstances a fee may be payable.
Guide to GP Services
The Royal College of General Practitioners has produced a useful guide for patients about the
services on offer at GP Surgeries and how to access them. You can download the guide below.
A Patient Guide to GP Services
Registering Online
Online 'Pre-Registration' With The Practice
If you wish to pre-register click on the link below to open the form. When you have completed
all of the details, click on the "Send" button to mail your form to us. When you visit the surgery
for the first time you will be asked to sign the form to confirm that the details are correct.
Pre-registration Form
When you register you will also be asked to fill out a medical questionnaire. This is because it
can take a considerable time for us to receive your medical records. There is an online version of
this file too, which you may fill out and send to us. When you come to the surgery you will be
asked to sign this form to confirm that the details are correct.
Online Medical Questionnaire For New Patients
Note that by sending the form you will be transmitting information about your self across the
Internet and although every effort is made to keep this information secure, no guarantee can be
offered in this respect.
Alternatively you may print off a registration form, fill it out and bring it in with you on your
first visit to the practice.
Registration Form
Temporary Residents
Temporary Registration
If you are ill while away from home or if you are not registered with a doctor but need to see one
you can receive emergency treatment from the local GP practice for 14 days. After 14 days you
will need to register as a temporary or permanent patient.
You can be registered as a temporary patient for up to three months. This will allow you to be on
the local practice list and still remain a patient of your permanent GP. After three months you
will have to re-register as a temporary patient or permanently register with that practice.
To register as a temporary patient simply contact the local practice you wish to use. Practices do
not have to accept you as a temporary patient although they do have an obligation to offer
emergency treatment. You cannot register as a temporary patient at a practice in the town or area
where you are already registered.
Download the Temporary Resident Registration Form
Update Your Contact Details
Help us to help you!
Please remember that if you move or change your phone number, you must let us know. In the
event of an emergency, the wrong address or phone number may cost valuable time.
You can change your address by
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Writing to us
Online
When you next visit the surgery
IT/Electronic Patient Records Statement of Intent
IT/Electronic Patient Records Statement of Intent
New contractual requirements came into force from 1st April 2014 requiring that GP practices should make
available a statement of intent in relation to the following IT developments:-
1.
Referral Management
2.
Electronic Appointment Booking
3.
On line Booking of repeat prescriptions
4.
Summary Care Record
5.
Patient Access to records
Dr Probert and Partners now offer to our patients all of the requirements under the GP contract relating to IT
developments and are working closely with our Clinical System Suppliers to allow patients to access the
detailed information from their medical record. It is our intention to have this development available to our
patients by 31st March 2016.
The Culverhay Surgery CQC Inspection Results April 2015
(www.cqc.org.uk/location/1-542890220)
The Care Quality Commission (CQC), which is an independent regulator of health and adult
social care in England, has completed its inspection of the Culverhay Surgery. These inspections
are used to make sure that health services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate and
high-quality care.
The Culverhay Surgery report is now available on the CQC website
(www.cqc.org.uk/location/1-542890220) .
To view the PDF Premises ratings or Activity ratings please follow the links below.
Premises Ratings
Activity Ratings
Online Services
Online Services Now Available
Patients of the Culverhay Surgery can now book, cancel and rebook appointments online, and
also order repeat prescriptions securely using 'SystmOnline' which is a web-based module
provided by our computer supplier TPP. The practice also offers the facility for patients to view
online, export or print any summary information from their record, relating to medications,
allergies and adverse reactions.
You will need to register to use the 'SystmOnline' at the practice where you will be supplied with
a username and first password (which you can then update after your first log-in). When
registering you will need to provide photographic ID to verify your identity for security
purposes.
There is also now a free SystmOnline App for iPhones and iPads.
Text Message Reminders
You can now register to receive information by text message on your phone regarding
appointments and health care.
If you wish to register for this messaging service please fill out the consent form.
Practice Policies
Confidentiality & Medical Records
The practice complies with data protection and access to medical records legislation. Identifiable
information about you will be shared with others in the following circumstances:



To provide further medical treatment for you e.g. from district nurses and hospital
services.
To help you get other services e.g. from the social work department. This requires your
consent.
When we have a duty to others e.g. in child protection cases anonymised patient
information will also be used at local and national level to help the Health Board and
Government plan services e.g. for diabetic care.
If you do not wish anonymous information about you to be used in such a way, please let us
know.
Reception and administration staff require access to your medical records in order to do their
jobs. These members of staff are bound by the same rules of confidentiality as the medical staff.
Freedom of Information
Information about the General Practioners and the practice required for disclosure under this act
can be made available to the public. All requests for such information should be made to the
practice manager.
Access to Records
In accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 and Access to Health Records Act, patients
may request to see their medical records. Such requests should be made through the practice
manager and may be subject to an administration charge. No information will be released
without the patient consent unless we are legally obliged to do so.
Complaints
We make every effort to give the best service possible to everyone who attends our practice.
However, we are aware that things can go wrong resulting in a patient feeling that they have a
genuine cause for complaint. If this is so, we would wish for the matter to be settled as quickly,
and as amicably, as possible.
To pursue a complaint please contact the practice manager who will deal with your concerns
appropriately. Further written information is available regarding the complaints procedure from
reception.
Violence Policy
The NHS operate a zero tolerance policy with regard to violence and abuse and the practice has
the right to remove violent patients from the list with immediate effect in order to safeguard
practice staff, patients and other persons. Violence in this context includes actual or threatened
physical violence or verbal abuse which leads to fear for a person’s safety. In this situation we
will notify the patient in writing of their removal from the list and record in the patient’s medical
records the fact of the removal and the circumstances leading to it.
Care Data
Information about you and the care you receive is shared, in a secure system, by healthcare staff
to support your treatment and care.
It is important that we, the NHS, can use this information to plan and improve services for all
patients. We would like to link information from all the different places where you receive care,
such as your GP, hospital and community service, to help us provide a full picture. This will
allow us to compare the care you received in one area against the care you received in another,
so we can see what has worked best.
Information such as your postcode and NHS number, but not your name, will be used to link
your records in a secure system, so your identity is protected. Information which does not reveal
your identity can then be used by others, such as researchers and those planning health services,
to make sure we provide the best care possible for everyone.
You have a choice. If you are happy for your information to be used in this way you do not have
to do anything. If you have any concerns or wish to prevent this from happening, please speak to
practice staff or download a copy of the leaflet “How information about you helps us to provide
better care” below.
We need to make sure that you know this is happening and the choices you have.
How information about you helps us to provide better care
Care Data - Frequently Asked Questions
HSCIC Data Sharing Opt Out Form.pdf
You can find out more on the NHS England Care Data website
(www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/tsd/care-data/)
Training Practice Information
The Culverhay Surgery is pleased to announce that it has been appointed as a training practice
with effect from August 2011. The promotion to a training practice is in recognition of the high
quality of care that is provided by the Culverhay Surgery. Fully qualified junior Doctors will be
joining the Practice, each completing a four month attachment. These Doctors are fully qualifed
'Doctors in training'. They will be supervised by Dr. Richard Probert, who is their educational
supervisor, as well as the senior Doctors within the surgery. If you are seeing the Doctor in
training please be aware that they are fully qualified but are in training as part of an ongoing
postgraduate educational programme.
Carers Direct
(www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/Pages/CarersDirectHome.aspx)
Are You a Carer?
If you are please let us know - we may be able to help you
There is a wealth of information on NHS Choices
(www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/Pages/CarersDirectHome.aspx) about carers and caring. Below are
some links into the site that we hope you will find useful.

Caring for a parent
(www.nhs.uk/video/pages/medialibrary.aspx?Page=1&Filter=&Id={6F24B98E-41DC499F-B97C0A2C688F5100}&Tag=Carers&Title=NHS+VIDEOS+|+Caring+for+a+parent+at+ho
me&Uri=video/2009/November/Pages/Caringforaparentathome.aspx)
Watch this video on: caring for a parent at home

Telling people (www.nhs.uk/CarersDirect/yourself/relationships/Pages/tellingfriends.aspx)
Caring responsibilities can make it difficult to maintain friendships or develop new ones.
Telling your friends you're a carer is important so they understand and can support you.

Taking a break (www.nhs.uk/CarersDirect/yourself/timeoff/Pages/Overview.aspx)
Caring for someone can be a full-time job, but it's essential that you take time out for
yourself too. Read our guide to accessing breaks and respite.

Housing and carers
(www.nhs.uk/CarersDirect/guide/practicalsupport/Pages/Housing.aspx)
Do you know your tenancy rights as a carer? Are you aware of all your care at home
options? Do you need tips on moving someone around the home?
Contact Carers Direct
Telephone
0808 802 0202
Helpline Information
http://www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/carerslives/updates/pages/carersdirecthelpline.aspx
(www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/carerslives/updates/pages/carersdirecthelpline.aspx)
Email
CarersDirect@nhschoices.nhs.uk
Office Hours
Lines are open 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 11am to 4pm at weekends. Calls are free from UK landlines.
Carers support groups
Finance and Law
Help claiming benefits, looking after your bank balance and understanding the legal issues of
caring.

Benefits for carers (www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/carersbenefits)
Directing carers to the benefits that can help them in their caring role

Benefits for the person you care for
(www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/disabilitybenefits)
Advice and information on helping the person you look after get the benefits that they are
entitled to

Death and benefits (www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/deathandbenefits)
How your benefits maybe affected after the death of the person you look after and what
happens to their benefits

Managing someone's legal affairs (www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/legal)
Advice for when carers find they have to take over the legal affairs of the person they are
looking after
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Other benefits (www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/otherbenefits)
Advice for carers and the people they are looking after on claiming a whole host of other
benefits unrelated to their disability or caring
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Personal and household finance (www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/finance)
Advice on keeping a tight rein on household and personal finance for carers
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Social fund (www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/socialfund)
Tax credits (www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/moneyandlegal/taxcredits)
Information on claiming tax credits and whether you might be eligible
Friends and Family Test
The NHS has asked all GP surgeries to provide patients with the opportunity to provide
feedback, following their treatment. This is known as the Friends and Family Test (FFT).
It has to be at least two questions, the first being a closed question “…would you recommend….
To your friends and family..” to which the answers vary from “Extremely likely” through to
“Extremely unlikely”. This is then followed by a request to leave a comment as to their reasons.
By 1st December 2014, all GP practices must offer these two questions to patients, following
every episode of treatment. They then need to collate and analyse the data, report the summaries
to NHS England and then look at the comments for common themes to make service
improvements. NHS England will then publish the FFT score on a national website that is public.
If you would like to participate in this survey please click on the online survey link here
(www.mysurgeryoffice.co.uk/psurvey.aspx?p=211824&a=L84027) .
Alcohol Questionnaire
Please answer the questions in the short questionnaire to enable us to assess your alcohol
consumption rate and offer advice if necessary.
Alcohol Consumption Questionnaire
NHS CHOICES ALCOHOL CALCULATOR (www.nhs.uk/tools/pages/alcohol-unitcalculator.aspx)
Alcohol unit calculator (www.nhs.uk/tools/pages/alcohol-unit-calculator.aspx)
Asthma Review
For patients who are due an annual asthma review.
Please would you answer the questions on the form below and submit it to us.
If your symptoms are deteriorating or you have any concerns, please make an appointment to the
respiratory nurse or a doctor as well.
Open the Asthma Annual Review Form
Asthma
Asthma is a common condition that causes coughing, wheezing, tightness of the chest and
breathlessness. Most people with asthma who take the appropriate treatment can live normal
lives, but left untreated, asthma can cause permanent damage to the airways
Symptoms of asthma
The usual symptoms of asthma are
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coughing
wheezing
shortness of breath
tightness in the chest.
Not everyone will get all of these symptoms. Some people experience them from time to time; a
few people may experience these symptoms all the time.
Treatment of asthma
There isn't a cure for asthma. However, treatments are available to help manage your symptoms.
Your treatment plan will be individual to you, combining medicines and asthma management in
a way that works best for you
Living with asthma
Medicines are only part of your treatment for asthma. You will also need to deal with the things
that make it worse. Keep a diary to record anything that triggers your asthma - this can help you
to discover a pattern. Using a peak flow meter to monitor your lung function can also help. If you
have repeatedly low readings in a certain situation (for example, at the end of a working day,
after exercise or after contact with an animal) this may indicate the trigger.
Physical Activity Questionnaire
This easy to use patient questionnaire has been validated for use in Primary Care.
It is used by your doctor to assess your level of physical activity.
Physical Activity Questionnaire
Staff Details
Doctors
Dr Philip
Pritchard
MBBS (London 1981) LRCP MRCS MFSEM
Dr Pritchard joined the practice in 1990. He has a particular interest in
minor surgery and is a specialist in sports and exercise medicine.
Dr
Richard
Probert
MBBS BSc (London 1995) MRCGP 2001 DFFP
Dr Mark
Porter
MBE MB BS DA DCH
Dr Probert joined the practice in 2002. He has a particular interest in
diabetes, paediatrics and sexual health. He is also interested in training
and education and has been appointed an Honorary Teacher at the
University of Bristol.
Dr Porter is currently a part time Associate GP at the practice. He also
works for the BBC and is the medical correspondent for The Times.
Mark was appointed MBE in 2005 for services to medicine.
Dr Pippa
Munro
BM (1997 Southampton) MRCGP DCH DFFP
Dr Munro is a Salaried GP and is currently working 3 sessions per week.
Special interests include womens health, sexual health and child health
The Culverhay Surgery would like to welcome to Dr Thurston, Dr
Thompson and Dr Russell
We are pleased to announce that we have three new female Doctors
working at the surgery; Dr Nicola Thurston will be working 5
sessions a week on Monday, Wednesday (half day) and
Thursday. Dr Grace Thompson will also be working 5 sessions
on Tuesday, Wednesday (half day) and Friday. Dr Sophie
Russell will be working 4 sessions a week on Monday and
Thursday.
We would also like to welcome Dr Christopher Worrall who is a full-
time registrar and will be joining the practice at the beginning of
August 2015 for six months.
Nurses
Our fully trained and experienced practice nurses, on top of their
normal nursing duties, also provide the following services: health
checks, cervical smears, childhood/travel immunisations, ear
syringing and routine blood tests. To see one of the practice nurses,
simply make an appointment at reception.
Nurse
Katharine
Austin
Lead Nurse
Nurse Judy
Drinkwater
Practice Nurse
Katharine joined the practice in March 1993. Her specialist interest is
diabetes. Katharine is also a Non-Medical Prescriber which means she
is qualified to prescribe all medications.
Judy has been part of the Culverhay team since March 1990. She
specialises in asthma management and contraception, including
contraceptive implants.
Nurse Pippa
Marrow
Practice Nurse
Pippa joined the practice in September 2007. Her specialist interests
include asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Healthcare Assistants
Lesley
Hall
HCA
Lesley joined in March 2011. Her primary role is to take blood
(phlebotomy) and blood pressures, and provide general health checks for
those in the 40 - 75 age bracket. She also provides advice to those wishing
to stop smoking.
Practice Management
The Practice Manager, Caroline Pearmain, deals with the running and
organisation of the practice. If you have any constructive comments or
suggestions that may help us in our aim to improve the services we
offer, Caroline will be pleased to hear from you.
Caroline
Pearmain
Practice Manager
Caroline is responsible for the full management and administrative
support to the practice, and ensuring the smooth running of the practice.
Caroline joined the Culverhay Surgery in October 2013. Prior to that,
she worked in practice management for over 20 years in South
Gloucestershire.
Secretaries
Judith
Barker
Secretary
Judith is the longest-standing member of staff at the Culverhay, having
joined in February 1986. Judith provides full secretarial support to the
Doctors, typing referral letters and dealing with any queries. Judith
works part time on a Tuesday and Thursday.
Sarah
Loveridge
Secretary
Sarah joined the practice as a receptionist in February 2013. Sarah still
works in reception but splits her week to work Monday morning,
Wednesday and Friday as a secretary. Like Judith, Sarah provides full
secretarial support to the Doctors.
Kay
Herniman
IT Manager
Kay joined the practice in July 2004. She has responsibility for IT, data
entry, Summary Care Records, data protection and the practice website.
Community Midwives
Our Midwife will help look after you during your pregnancy and for the first two or
three weeks after delivery. She is available at the surgery for antenatal clinics and
parent-craft classes. She can be contacted through the surgery or directly on 0300
421 8018.
Community Nurses
Our District Nurses provide support and nursing to patients at home. This will be
arranged through the doctor or sometimes by the hospital. They can be contacted
through the surgery or directly on
01453 540034.
Health Visitors
A Health Visitor is a registered nurse who has received training particularly related
to babies, children and pregnant women. Their role is to provide families with
children under five years old with support and advice around the general aspects of
mental, physical and social wellbeing.
Dispensers
Our very busy dispensary is run by the team of 4 Dispensers. They
manage the processing of repeat and acute prescriptions which
involves a continuous cycle of ordering drugs, receiving and checking
the order and then dispensing to the patient, all within 48 hours.
They also deal with any medication enquiries, referring to the doctor
when necessary. They can also advise patients on help with NHS
prescription charges.
Lynne
Brooks
Dispensary Manager
Lynne joined the Culverhay surgery in May 2003
Tracy
Burton
Dispenser
Tracy joined the Culverhay surgery in September 2004
Caroline
Templeton
Dispenser
Caroline joined the Culverhay surgery in January 2005
Kate Quarry Dispenser
Kate Quarry