Practice News

DNA appointments - March 2024
2nd Apr

Non-attendance of patient appointments in March

In March, the Practice had a combined 121 appointments where the patient did not attend (DNA). This is an increase from 98 DNA appointments in February. In particular Dr Shaw had 8 missed appointments, Dr Strachan 7, and one of our Healthcare Assistant's 31.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
DNA appointments - February 2024
1st Mar

Non-attendance of patient appointments in February

In February, the Practice had a combined 98 appointments where the patient did not attend (DNA). This is a significant decrease from 122 DNA appointments in January. Thank you!
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
Waiting
23rd Feb

ASD / ADHD referrals

Statement from the Practice Manager:

We have seen a significant rise in requests for ASD / ADHD referrals and this increase in demand is being replicated across the country.  As a consequence, this has placed a huge demand on the various private and public neuro-developmental services.

This message is intended to describe some of the waiting times patients should expect once we have submitted referrals to such organisations.  It is important for all to understand that this Practice does not have any control over the waiting lists, nor are we able to influence their prioritisation of their workload.

SERVICE PROVIDER

WAITING TIME

SAANS

ASD – 3 YEARS 9 MONTHS

ADHD – 5 YEARS

PSYCHIATRY UK

NO LONGER PROVIDING WAITING TIME

DERBYSHIRE NEURO-DEVELOPMENT

NO LONGER PROVIDING WAITING TIME

ADHD 360

NO LONGER PROVIDING WAITING TIME
Pharmacy First
23rd Feb

Pharmacy First service

The Pharmacy First service commenced on 31st January 2024. The advanced service involves pharmacists providing advice and NHS-funded treatment, where clinically appropriate, for 7 common conditions.
 
This service can be accessed in either of the 2 pharmacies within Killamarsh WITHOUT an appointment.
 
Those conditions are:
  • Acute Otitis Media* (ear infection), 1-17 year
  • Impetigo, 1 year and over
  • Infected insect bites, 1 year and over
  • Shingles, 18 years and over
  • Sinusitis, 12 years and over
  • Sore throat, 5 years and over
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infections, women 16-64 years
Feedback
5th Feb

Have you recently had a positive experience at our Practice?

We are asking for recent positive patient experiences and feedback. This feedback will not only allow us, as a Practice, to identify areas that require improvement but to also provide feedback to staff as to what services are working well.
 
Reviews can include appointment availability, telephones, service received by a member of our staff.
 
Our Practice has implemented a number of changes over the past 6 months, and we are keen to receive your feedback to help us continue developing.
 
Please leave your review here.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation.
DNA appointments - January 2024
1st Feb

Non-attendance of patient appointment in January

In January, the Practice had a combined 122 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend (DNA). This is an increase on 113 DNA appointments in December.
 
In particular one doctor had 12 missed appointments, whilst a Practice Nurse had 36 missed appointments.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
Time To Talk Day
1st Feb

Time To Talk Day

1st February is Time To Talk Day ... an annual awareness day to start a conversation about mental health. Talking about mental health isn't easy but a conversation has the power to change lives. 

Tips for talking

There's no right or wrong way to talk about mental health, but these tips can help make sure you’re approaching the conversation in a helpful way. 

Ask questions and listen

Asking questions can give the person space to express how they’re feeling and what they’re going through. And it can help you to understand their experience better. Try to ask questions that are open and not leading or judgemental, for example “how does that affect you?” or “what does it feel like?” 

Think about the time and place

Sometimes it’s easier to talk side by side rather than face to face. If you do talk in person, you might want to chat while doing something else. You could start a conversation when you’re walking, cooking or stuck in traffic, but don’t let the search for the perfect place put you off!

Don't try and fix it

It can be hard to see someone you care about having a difficult time. Try to resist the urge to offer quick fixes to what they’re going through. Learning to manage or recover from a mental health problem can be a long journey. They’ve likely already considered lots of different tools and strategies. Just talking can be really powerful, so unless they’ve asked for advice directly, it might be best just to listen.

Treat them the same

When someone has a mental health problem, they’re still the same person as they were before. When a friend or loved one opens up about mental health, they don’t want you to treat them any differently. If you want to support them, keep it simple, do the things you’d normally do.

Be patient

No matter how hard you try, some people might not be ready to talk about what they’re going through. That’s OK ... the fact that you’ve tried to talk may make it easier for them to open up another time.
 
Sometimes speaking to people you know about your mental health can be too tough. Here are some people you can call if you'd rather speak to someone you don't know personally:
MIND - 0300 123 3393, open 9.00am-6.00pm weekdays
Samaritans - 116 123, always open
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) - 0800 585858, open 5.00pm-midnight
SHOUT - text SHOUT to 85258, always open
Measles
30th Jan

Measles - MMR vaccine

Measles is highly infectious and can be passed on even before a rash appears.
 
Please make sure your child is protected from becoming seriously unwell from measles by making sure they are up to date with their MMR vaccinations.  For more information go here.
Statement
26th Jan

Statement from the Practice Manager

Dear Patients,
 
There seems to be a number of persistent false rumours circulating around Killamarsh that I feel I must address. The following information is factual and none of what follows is based upon my opinion.
 
We have 4 doctors working here at Killamarsh. Two are Partners [i.e. the owners] and two are salaried GPs. NONE of those doctors have ever signalled an intention to retire. There is always a doctor present when this Practice is open.
 
We also employ an array of other clinical staff who are under the direct supervision of a GP:
3 Advanced Clinical Practitioners, including a Community Nurse who conducts home visits. All are independent prescribers;
1 Physician Associate;
1 Lead Practice Nurse who is also an independent prescriber;
1 Practice Nurse;
2 Healthcare Assistants.
 
We are part of the North-East Derbyshire Primary Care Network. This is more commonly known as the NED PCN and includes ourselves, The Springs, Barlbrough and The Valleys.
 
The NED PCN employs a wide range of staff that supplement our team. Currently the following NED PCN staff provide services here at Killamarsh:
  • First Contact Practitioners;
  • Physiotherapist;
  • Advanced Clinical Practitioner;
  • Mental Health Specialist;
  • Pharmacist.
 
We also have a Community Team based within this Practice. Within the last month this team has worked with other partner agencies to arrange and facilitate Carer Support and Dementia Support days.
 
My intention in sharing this through social media is to quash any rumours that suggest any of our doctors are 'winding down' or retiring as this has never been the case. I also want to describe the full range of services being provided by Killamarsh Medical Practice.
 
I hope this provides some reassurance to the community.
 
Abdul Aziz – Practice Manager.
Telephone
23rd Jan

Correct telephone number for the Practice

The only telephone number which should be used to contact the Practice is (0114) 251 0000. Please amend any previously saved telephone numbers in your telephone handset or mobile phones. The telephone number (0114) 251 0002 is no longer applicable.

DNA appointments - December 2023
5th Jan

Non-attendance of patient appointments in December

In December, the Practice had a combined 113 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend (DNA). This is a significant decrease from 141 appointments in November, and we thank you for your help and co-operation regarding this improvement in attendance.
 
It is clear, however, that appointment DNAs with our Practice Nurses and Healthcare Assistants are consistently high each month. In their clinical rotas appointment times are 10 minutes but depending upon a patient's medical need a 20 or 30 minute appointment will be made.  In December's statistics at least 2 x 20 minute appointments were not attended and this time could have been used to see other patients if the patients had cancelled in good time.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
Colds
12th Dec 2023

Common cold advice

Colds are caused by viruses and easily spread to other people.  A person remains infectious until all their symptoms have gone, and this usually takes 1-2 weeks.  Colds are spread by germs from coughs and sneezes which can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours.

To reduce the risk of spreading a cold:

  • wash your hands often with warm water and soap;
  • use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze, and bin used tissues as quickly as possible;
  • do not share towels or household items (like cups) with someone who has a cold;
  • do not touch your eyes or nose in cause you have come into contact with the virus as it can infect the body this way;
  • stay fit and healthy.

To help you get better more quickly:

  • get plenty of rest and sleep.  If you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better.;
  • drink plenty of water (fruit juice or squash mixed with water is OK) to avoid dehydration;
  • adults can gargle with salt water to soothe a sore throat. 

Further NHS information and guidance can be found here.

 

Norovirus
12th Dec 2023

Norovirus advice

Norovirus (the 'winter vomiting bug') is spreading quickly at the moment. It is important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water to stop the stomach bug spreading. Alcohol hand gels do not kill norovirus.

Norovirus can spread very easily and can be caught from:

  • close contact with someone with norovirus;
  • touching surfaces or objects that have the viurs on them, then touching your mouth;
  • eating food that's been prepared or handled by someone with norovirus.

Further NHS information and guidance can be found here.

DNA appointments - November 2023
1st Dec 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in November

In November, the Practice had a combined 141 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. This is a significant decrease from 251 appointments in October, and we thank you for your help and co-operation regarding this improvement in attendance.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
Novovirus
30th Nov 2023

* Are you vomiting and have diarrhoea?

The number of patients in hospital with Norovirus last week was almost triple the number during the same period last winter.

Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting.  If you catch it, make sure you rest and have plenty of fluids.

For more information click here.

Forms and letters
29th Nov 2023

Requests for supporting medical forms or letters

For various circumstances a patient may require a supporting medical form or letter to be completed by one of our GPs.  Depending upon the provider's deadline of the document, may we ask patients to allow a maximum 4-week turnaround for this to be completed within the Practice due to the number of requests we receive.

Once the document is ready for collection we will contact the patient directly.

Thank you for your co-operation.

Mobile phone
29th Nov 2023

Service improvements made following Community Meeting

Following the constructive Community Meeting with Lee Rowley MP on Thursday 23 November, this week we have made the following improvements to our current service delivery:

  1. Yesterday the automated telephone callback system went live allowing callers the choice of either receiving a callback from the Practice, to wait in the queue, or to try again at a quieter time of day.
  2. We have recruited a full-time Receptionist who will commence employment mid-December.
  3. We are also in the process of recruiting a telephonist who will specifically be available 8.00am-12.00pm (one of our peak periods) to help answer telephone calls.  This should significantly reduce call waiting times which has been one of our biggest complaints.
  4. We have set-up a new Practice Manager email address for matters of complaint or concern only (this email address should not be used for medical enquiries): ddicb.manager.kmp@nhs.net

As we continue to improve we welcome all feedback, and ask our patients to submit it via the 'NHS Friends and Family' link on our website's homepage.

Telephone
27th Nov 2023

Introduction of automated telephone callback system

From today we have introduced a new automated callback facility to our current telephone system.  We have listened to patient feedback and hope this new automated callback facility will improve our patients' experience when contacting the Practice.

When you now telephone the Practice you will be placed in a queue and informed how many callers are currently waiting for their telephone to be answered. After a period of time you will be offered the following choices:

  1. press 3, to receive a callback from ourselves (once your virtual place in the telephone queue reaches number 1).  You will be asked to confirm your callback telephone number, which will be read back to you, and to press 1 to confirm or 2 to enter a different callback number.
  2. press #, to return to the queue and wait until your call is answered.
  3. hang up and try again at another time.

 It is important:

  1. to keep your telephone close to you so you can be ready to answer the automated callback.
  2. for any call which isn't answered, a member of our Reception Team will leave a voicemail message letting you know we have returned your call.  Due to the automated callback system we are limited to returning your original call only once.

We looking forward to receiving your feedback regarding this latest improvement to our Practice.

Public meeting
24th Nov 2023

Community Meeting with Lee Rowley MP, Thursday 23 November 2023

Further to last night's meeting please see the following from our Practice Manager, Abdul Aziz:
 
"May I begin by thanking the local community, and Mr Rowley, for organising this very constructive meeting. I just thought I would post my personal reflections in the hope of us moving forward together.
 
Firstly, I totally understand the frustrations expressed by many of the attendees and would like to assure the local community that this Practice is listening and actively looking at ways to improve our service delivery.
 
The issue of recruiting GPs is not easily solved: money is one issue, as it is for most businesses right now, but the most challenging hurdle is the 'marketplace' in terms of available GPs and their willingness to work within Primary Care. This is a national problem, but I accept the challenge before me is to attract this talent to Killamarsh.
 
We currently have 4 GPs and none of them are planning to retire within the next 3 years.
 
We have adopted the model of modern General Practice, which is to provide patients with the most appropriate care, or other response from the right member of the Practice team including signposting or referring patients to other appropriate services.
 
It is clear to me we must do more to improve the patient experience from every point of contact, particularly our telephones. This is without doubt a serious problem that I agree must be given the highest priority. The introduction of the call-back facility within the existing telephone system will help but I will be looking at other internal opportunities also.
 
My intention is to update the Partners and work through the actions we took away from this constructive meeting, and I will honour my promise to attend the next meeting in Spring 2024.
 
We do have an active Patient Participation Group (PPG) which meets quarterly at the Practice, and we are in need of another 5-6 members. If you would like to know more, please contact myself or Emma Bradley for further information.
 
We will be updating our website with the best contact email address for Emma and myself and hope to have this done by the end of next week.
I sincerely hope that none of my answers appeared defensive, and I certainly have no desire to seem critical of Lee or his political party. Lee has been very supportive, and I do welcome the constructive challenge.
 
Regards,
Abdul Aziz"
Learning Disability annual health check
14th Nov 2023

Learning Disability Annual Health Check

If you have a Learning Disability and are aged 14 years or over, you are eligible for an Annual Health Check.

Please contact our Reception Team to book an appointment.

DNA appointments - October 2023
8th Nov 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in October

In October, the Practice had a combined 251 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. This is a significant increase from 166 appointments in September.  However, the Practice ran a number of Flu and Covid clinics during October and where patients had not arrived on time for their appointment they were telephoned and reminded of their appointment. They were then able to arrive at a later time the same day and have their vaccine(s).
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
Adam Johnson
2nd Nov 2023

Adam Johnson and post-trauma reactions

To everyone affected by the passing of Adam Johnson at the Sheffield Steelers game against the Nottingham Panthers on Saturday 28th October, we are thinking of you.  You may be going through a difficult time emotionally at the moment after seeing and hearing the accident, and the subsequent events.  For example, you may be experiencing:

  • Memories or pictures of the event unexpectedly appearing in your mind;
  • Not wanting to think or talk about the event;
  • Not being able to concentrate;
  • Becoming more clingy with parents or carers.

 

You may expect to feel different emotions over the coming days and months, and we hope the following links help you understand and have more control over your experience:

Coping with stress following a major incident

How to help your child understand upsetting news

Grief after bereavement or loss

 

Our sincere condolences to Adam's family, friends, team mates, and ice hockey community.

Tablets
3rd Oct 2023

Prescription authorisations - allow up to 3 working days

If you are waiting for a prescription to be authorised, please allow up to 3 workings days (72 hours) for this to take place.
 
We strongly recommend you submit any prescription requests at least one week prior to you needing the medication. Please do a weekly stock check to see if you are running out of any medication that you need to reorder either online or by telephoning the Medicines Order Line (MOL).
 
We have recently seen an increase in the number of urgent requests for repeat medication where the patient has either nearly run out, or run out, of their required medication.
 
Further information on how to order repeat medication at our Practice can be found here.
DNAs in September 2023
2nd Oct 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in September

In September, the Practice had a combined 166 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. Regrettably this is a significant increase from our August numbers, with the exception of the ACPs who saw an improvement of 13 DNAs in July to 9 in September.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use, and is an improvement last month's statistics. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
Online questionnaire
20th Sep 2023

Patient experience feedback

As a Practice, we welcome all feedback - both positive and negative -  on our patients' experiences in the Practice.  Below are the different ways patients can submit their feedback to us:

  1. either going to the NHS Friends and Family form on our website's homepage or completing a paper form in the Practice and posting it in the box to the left of our Reception desk;
  2. leaving a review via the NHS website here;
  3. if you have a Google account click here and then search for 'Killamarsh Medical Practice;
  4. join our Patient Participation Group (PPG) and attend meetings in the Practice with members of our Management Team.

Patient feedback is imperative to the future of our Practice as it is key in us knowing:

  1. where we can improve;
  2. where we can celebrate our achievements.

Please let us know what you think ... our patients are our priority.

Group pic
12th Sep 2023

20 years service celebrated at Killamarsh Medical Practice

Today members of staff at Killamarsh Medical Practice took time out of their busy working day to acknowledge and celebrate Nicola Parker's 20th anniversary of working at the Practice.

 

Nicola, one of our Healthcare Assistants, is not only well-loved and respected by all members of staff but also by many of our patients.  Dr Strachan paid a heartwarming tribute to Nicola not only acknowledging her healthcare work, but also her friendship and a long-standing supportive colleague to many in the Practice.

 

Nicola said "I started at Killamarsh Medical Practice in 2003 as a part-time Healthcare Assistant when my youngest son started school full-time. As the years progressed my hours increased and I have been full-time for the last 7 years.

I am fortunate to work with some wonderful colleagues that I can also call my good friends who certainly make coming to work a pleasure and, without them, I think getting through the pandemic and my personally challenging times would have been a lot harder. So thank you to my colleagues for that!

I enjoy coming to work every day as I enjoy meeting and helping our lovely patients and also taking their blood!

Over the years my role has evolved from taking bloods, blood pressures and ECGs, to doing lots of other things including spirometry, health checks, podiatry (as part of the diabetic reviews) and vaccinations.  Recently I have taken on a new role recently of Infection Prevention and Control Lead with the help of the Senior Practice Nurse.

I hope to be here for many years to come!"

 

Thank you Nicola for everything you are and do for us.

DNA appointments for August 2023
8th Sep 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in August

In August, the Practice had a combined 110 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. This is less than July but regrettably there was an increase in the number of DNA appointments with our Doctors rising from 11 in July to 15 in August.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use, and is an improvement last month's statistics. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
Stay healthy in the heat
7th Sep 2023

Stay healthy in the heat

During hot weather it is important to take extra care of ourselves and others.  Some top tips are:

  • Keep out of the heat if you can: if you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11.00am and 3.00pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
  • Cool yourself down: have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
  • Keep your living space cool: close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.

 

For further NHS advice on how to cope during hot weather, please click here.

 

Urine sample
7th Sep 2023

Patient samples for testing

When bringing a sample to the Practice to be tested, can you please ensure:
  1. the sample pot is tightly fastened before putting inside the external bag;
  2. the external bag itself is dry before handing to a member of our Reception team.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your co-operation regarding this.
Prescriptions
31st Aug 2023

Prescription authorisations

If you are waiting for a prescription to be authorised, please allow up to 3 workings days (72 hours) for this to take place. Delays may occur when clinical members of staff are absent from work due to annual leave or sick leave.
 
We thank you, in advance, for your patience.
 
Further information on how to order repeat medication at our Practice can be found here.
PPG
23rd Aug 2023

Expressions of interest to join our Patient Participation Group (PPG)

Our Patient Participation Group was established to provide an independent overview of patient services and facilities at Killamarsh Medical Practice.
 
Our PPG has an established list of members who meet approximately 4 times each year to:
  • Review the latest national GP Patient Survey results;
  • Consider patient concerns, comments or suggestions about the quality of service provided, and what improvements can be made;
  • Be fully briefed about NHS policies and procedures, and the delivery of services;
  • To exchange information and ideas;
  • To improve communication between the Practice and its patients.
 
We are actively looking to recruit more PPG members and would welcome any registered patient to join our PPG by leaving their name and contact details with a member of our Reception Team. They will then pass your details to our Practice Manager who will contact you in the first instance.
DNAs for June 2023
10th Aug 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in July

In July, the Practice had a combined 122 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. Although DNA appointments with Doctors, Heathcare Assistants and Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) all decreased in July, regrettably there was a significant increase in DNA appointments with our Practice Nurses rising from 35 in June to 50 in July.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use, and is an improvement last month's statistics. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
Diabetes
9th Aug 2023

Rybelsus prescription requests

There are extremely limited supplies of Rybelsus across the UK and the supply is not expected to return to normal until late-2024. Unfortunately we are not able to switch between brands of GLP1, including between injectable and oral forms.

Patients who are currently prescribed Rybelsus will be prioritised over the next 2 weeks for a review with one of our Practice nurses where the patient's current diabetic medication may be reviewed and alternative glucose lowering therapy considered.

Access to a diabetes education programme may also be encouraged by the Practice Nurse.

Inhaler
3rd Aug 2023

Lung conditions - the importance of good inhaler technique

If you have a lung condition such as asthma or COPD, having good inhaler technique helps you breathe the medicine straight into your lungs where it is needed, avoiding the medicine being absorbed into the rest of your body.
 
Even if you think your inhaler technique is OK, please take the time to look at the most appropriate video for your inhaler here and see if you are using it correctly.
 
Following the video, if you still have questions regarding your inhaler technique then please contact our Reception Team and ask to make a routine appointment with one of our Practice Nurses.
Cigarette ends
3rd Aug 2023

Do you want to stop smoking but unsure what to do next?

Did you know we run a Smoking Cessation clinic every Friday? If you want to stop smoking and need support in doing so then please arrange an appointment for you to attend our clinic.
 
There are two options to obtain an appointment:
1. Self-referral via 'Live Life Better Derbyshire';
2. speaking with a member of our Reception Team.
June 2023 DNA appointments
12th Jul 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in June

In June, the Practice had a combined 103 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. Happily this is a decrease on last month's figure of 133.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use, and is an improvement last month's statistics. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice (and press option 1) as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
Information
30th Jun 2023

Community News and Healthcare Noticeboards

Did you know we have a Community News noticeboard specifically for events in Killamarsh and the local area?  It can be found on the left-hand side as you enter the Practice.  If you have an event you would like to publicise, please hand the information to a member of our Reception Team.

Whilst visiting our Practice, please also take the time to look at our Waiting Room noticeboards and information stand (to the right of our Front Desk) as they contain a lot of useful information relating to not only local and healthcare services, but also a specific topic such as 'Loneliness' and 'carer support'.

May 2023 DNAs
30th Jun 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in May

In May, the Practice had a combined 133 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. Sadly this is an increase on last month's figure of 100.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use, and is an improvement last month's statistics. Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
April 2023 DNAs
19th May 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in April

In April, the Practice had a combined 100 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend, and is an improvement on last month's statistics.
 
This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use.  Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
Nurses Day
12th May 2023

International Nurses Day

As a sign of our appreciation on International Nurses Day we would like to highlight the work carried out at Killamarsh Medical Practice by our two Practice Nurses, Kristy and Teresa:
 
Kristy Milner (on the right) explains "My nursing career started 23 years ago.  I worked as an Auxiliary Nurse, on the colorectal surgical ward at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital for 18 months before starting my nursing training at Sheffield University. I really enjoyed being an Auxiliary Nurse; being surrounded by knowledgeable staff nurses ignited my passion for becoming a qualified nurse; even more.

My first job as a qualified Staff Nurse was at Sheffield's Haematology Oncology ward – I worked with some of the best nurses I've ever met. They were so knowledgeable, caring, and supportive. I couldn’t have wished for a more advantageous first job!

I have worked as a General Practice Nurse for 11 years, I completed the Practice Nurse foundation programme at Sheffield University whilst working at Tramways Medical Centre, I have been working at Killamarsh Medical Practice for the last six years.

My role at Killamarsh Medical Practice has developed, I am now the Senior Practice Nurse and the diabetes and respiratory lead. I gained my non-medical prescribing qualification in 2022. I am very fortunate to work with a wonderful team at Killamarsh Medical practice (both clinical and non-clinical staff). My nursing team colleagues are brilliant, they make my working day enjoyable, and we are there for each other, both professionally and personally. The Killamarsh team make my day brighter, I do not think a day passes where I don't smile or laugh at least once. I think it is our close friendships and work ethics that supported us through the pandemic. This was an extremely challenging time for our team and a very steep learning curve.

In the next 12 months we will be reintroducing nursing students to the Practice again. Education is something I am passionate about. This will raise the profile of General Practice nursing as a first destination career.

The General Practice Nurse role, has and continues to evolve to meet both service demand and clinical care, I still have some professional ambitions and I am grateful that Killamarsh Medical Practice is supporting me in my professional development."
 
 
In addition Teresa (on the left) told us "I have been a trained nurse for 29 years, and have been at Killamarsh Medical Practice for nearly 7 years.  Earlier in my career, I worked not only as a District Nurse but also with older people and in palliative care at St Luke's Hospice in Sheffield.

My motivations include:

  • making health care real for people of all ages;
  • helping my patients have a good understanding of their health problems and achieving outcomes that are positive for them;
  • ensuring they remain healthy as a result.  I am always happy to give guidance that is beneficial."

 

Thank you Kristy and Teresa for everything you do!

 
March 2023 DNAs
17th Apr 2023

Non-attendance of patient appointments in March

In March, the Practice had a combined 165 face-to-face appointments where the patient did not attend. This data is taken from the patient record system which all our Practice staff use.
 
Whether you use the self check-in screen or see a member of our Reception Team at the Front Desk, your arrival will be marked on the patient system. Similarly, at the end of an appointment, the clinician will record you as having left.
 
If you are unable to attend your appointment please telephone the Practice as soon as you know you are not able to attend so we can reschedule it for you. This also means your appointment time can be made available to another patient who needs to be seen by a member of our Clinical Team quickly.
 
Thank you, in advance, for your help and co-operation regarding this.
Abbott
3rd Apr 2023

FreeStyle LibreLink app for Android mobile phones

We received notification this morning from Abbott that the latest version of the FreeStyle LibreLink app (version 2.8.4) is now compatible with Android OS 13. We encourage patients who use this app to update to the latest version as soon as possible.

If you need further support, please contact Abbott Customer Service at 0800 170 1177. They are open Monday-Friday, 8.00am-8.00pm, and Saturday, 9.00am-5.00pm (excluding Bank Holidays).

Heather Aitken
9th Mar 2023

Celebrating a year of Carer Support Days

We have been arranging Carer Support Days at Killamarsh Medical Practice with Heather Aitken, from the Derbyshire Carers Association, since March 2022.

So far, we have held 6 Support Days and offered over 70 appointments. If you are interested in attending a Support Day, or registering as a Carer, please phone the Practice and ask to speak to our Community Team.

The feedback from patients has frequently included how caring, thoughtful, and helpful Heather has been. We are planning more dates in the coming months, so why not get in touch?

For further information, please go to: www.derbyshirecarers.co.uk

Bowel cancer screening
27th Feb 2023

Your next poo could save your life

In a new ‘Help Us, Help You’ campaign that is the first of its kind nationally, NHS England is encouraging people who have been sent an NHS bowel cancer screening kit to complete the test.

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, and detecting it at the earliest stage makes you up to nine times more likely to be successfully treated.  But, almost one third of people who were sent an NHS bowel cancer screening test in England last year did not go on to complete it.

Just a tiny sample detects signs of cancer before you notice anything wrong. The test is simple to complete and can be done in the privacy of your own bathroom. Anyone aged 60 to 74, who lives in England and is registered with a GP practice will be sent a test in the post automatically, every two years. NHS England is also extending this to include all 50 to 59 year-olds by 2025.

So, the NHS is asking anyone who is sent a bowel cancer screening test to remember to complete it. Put it by the loo. Don’t put it off. Your next poo could save your life. Visit here for more information.

Laptop
20th Jan 2023

eConsult service - update

Following patient feedback, and to enhance our out-of-hours provision, our eConsult service is now only available Monday-Friday, 6.30pm-10.00pm.  All eConsults will be dealt with the following working day by a member of our clinical team.  So eConsults can be responded to quickly, there will only be a limited number of submissions per evening.
 
Our eConsult service will not be available Monday-Friday, 8.00am-6.30pm, while our Practice is open.  Patients can either visit the Practice or telephone and speak with a member of our Reception Team.
 
Mental Health
5th Jan 2023

Mental Health support - new service

As part of the NHS’s long-term plan, we are working to increase the mental health support you are able to get from your GP surgery.  From Monday 9th January, you will be able to access our exciting new Mental Health Service at Killamarsh Medical Practice.

Danielle is an experienced Mental Health nurse who will be able to see you if you are struggling with your mental health, need your mental health medications reviewing, or are struggling with where to turn.

If you think this would be helpful for you, please telephone our Practice to arrange a telephone triage appointment with a clinician.  Until your appointment, we ask that you keep yourself safe.

Danielle will be able to see you for a range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, thoughts of harming yourself, strange thoughts or experiences, or any ongoing effects of trauma. She will work with you to come to an outcome that can include therapies, brief interventions, medication or referrals on to more appropriate services if needed.

Alternatively you may wish to self-refer to one of the following Mental Health NHS services:

Insight IAPT

Trent PTS

Talking Mental Health Derbyshire

Sore throat
5th Dec 2022

Group A Streptococcal and Scarlet Fever infections

We would like to raise awareness regarding these two medical infections following a rise in cases nationally.  Please watch this YouTube video for further information as to what to look our for in children.

Please also see the NHS guidance here regarding how to treat a sore throat yourself.

Telephone calls (29.11.2022)
30th Nov 2022

Reception Team recognition

We would like to pay tribute and give recognition to our Reception Team who, currently, have been hit hard by sickness (a third are unfortunately absent due to illness).
 
Yesterday, alongside the vast array of other work they do, our Reception Team were able to answer 1,328 telephone calls. Thank you!
Nursing Support Workers' day
23rd Nov 2022

Nursing Support Workers' day

We took time out of our busy working day to thank our two Healthcare Assistants for their essential work within our Practice. Kristy Milner (Senior Practice Nurse) paid tribute by saying:
 
"This year I wanted to acknowledge and support Nursing Support Workers' Day. The contribution of our Healthcare Assistants, Nicola and Julie, is invaluable not only to our Nursing Team but also to our patients and their families who they work with every day. Nursing Support Workers’ Day has given us the opportunity to champion the work they do and recognise their often-unseen contribution.
Nicola and Julie have a critical role within our Nursing Team. They both work tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of nursing clinics. They both bring extensive knowledge, Primary Care experience, and contribute towards the decision making to ensure we are delivering the best nursing service possible.
 
Nicola and Julie know the patients and families of Killamarsh Medical Practice really well. This knowledge and relationship between Healthcare Professional and our patients and their families is invaluable. Under the supervision and direction of qualified nursing staff, Julie and Nicola carry out a wide range of clinical duties, to care for, support, and provide information to patients and their families. The role of the Healthcare Assistant within Primary Care continues to grow and evolve.
 
Their hard work, devotion, and working above and beyond their full-time hours especially during the pandemic never went unnoticed. At a time when there were big changes in short periods of time they managed this with great strength and pride, whilst continually remaining professional. Keeping patients safe was always their number one priority.
 
They both bring humour, laughter and warmth to our Team, not only in difficult times but every single day. This makes coming to work much more enjoyable. As Senior Practice Nurse this is something I am very proud of. I want to say, on behalf of the Nursing and Clinical Teams, a big 'thank you' for your ongoing contribution to our Team and the running of our General Practice."
 
 
Pre-retirement
25th Oct 2022

Staff update

From Monday 31st October our two Practice Partners, Dr Shaw and Dr Strachan, will enter a pre-retirement phase and will each work 3 days per week, rather than 5 days. For Dr Shaw this should have happened nearly 3 years ago ... and then Covid-19 entered our lives. We would like to thank him for continuing to work full-time throughout the Covid pandemic, for serving our local community, and wider area.
 
We would like to reassure our patients there will be no reduction in the quality of clinical care we offer at our Practice. Every clinical room in the Practice is assigned to a clinician, and details of our staff can be found here.
 
We will have at least two Doctors on-duty each day to see patients who have pre-booked appointments, and will be available to support our other clinicians.
 
May we remind you we are not a walk-in service nor A&E department
 
Thank you.
'Wear It Pink' day
21st Oct 2022

'Wear It Pink' day in support of Breast Cancer Awareness

Members of staff showed our support in raising continued awareness of Breast Cancer screening by wearing pink today.
 
Throughout October we have had a display board in the main Waiting Room which highlights the importance of both women, and men, checking their breasts regularly. On the display board you will see there are a number of smaller butterflies on each large butterfly ... this represents each patient who has attended their mammogram screening since January 2022, a total of 370! However, there are a significant number of patients who were unable to attend their mammogram appointment.
 
Screening is vital and we are here to support you through whatever the future may face. Further information about what a mammogram is and what the procedure involves can be found here.
 
If your mammogram screening is overdue, or you aren't sure when it is scheduled, please either click here or telephone the Breast Screening Unit at Chesterfield Royal Hospital on (01246) 516060.  By clicking on 'Find breast screening services' you will be able to find a screening centre most convenient for you (Chesterfield, Rotherham or Sheffield).
 
Further information on how to check your breasts can be found here.
 
Let's get checking!