Sternhall Times

September 2023 Edition

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From Our Pharmacy Team

The Flu vaccines will soon be on offer here at Sternhall lane surgery for eligible patient  groups. The aim of the service is to protect patients from the flu before is starts circulating and so patients are encouraged to get a vaccine as soon as is it available. The flu can be life threatening for at risk groups and so is free for some on the NHS. Its free for; over 65’s, certain health conditions (diabetes, asthma, COPD, heart failure etc). You should avoid the flu vaccine if you have had a severe allergic reaction to the flu jab in the past or have an egg allergy. You can ask your pharmacist  or GP if a low egg or egg free vaccine is available. Also, if you are ill with a high temperature, it is best to delay the vaccine until you are better. Finally, it is important to note that the flu vaccine cannot give you the flu as it does not contain the live virus and different vaccines are offered to different patient groups. You can start enquiring late September/early October to book anappointment. 

You can also go to most local pharmacies and get your flu jab there. Patients who are not eligible for the free NHS flu vaccine can still get the vaccine with their local pharmacies

Extended access changes to Sunday opening hours from early September

Please note that the opening hours at the extended services have now changed to 8:00am - 4:00pm on Sundays. This change will take place from Sunday 3rd September. Extended access will  continue to operate 8:00am - 8:00pm Monday to Friday.

Swift Queue

Swift Queue allows you to now book your blood test online. Blood test can now be booked from 29th August 2023 using a new online appointment booking system. You can view live appointment availability, choose a convenient time and location, view, reschedule and cancel appointments. This will reduce waiting times, and reduce overcrowding in waiting areas. A same day appointment 
will still be available for those who are unable to book online.

For further information about swiftqueue including a video user guide, please visit the Swift Queue website

If you require further assistance, please get in touch with the surgery. 

Awareness Days

September is urology awareness month. 
The campaign is to raise awareness in diseases including prostate, bladder and  kidney problems.

For month information, please visit the Urology Foundation website

International happiness at work week (25th-29th)
There are several actions that can be taken to improve happiness at work including; creating a work life balance, take breaks throughout the day and building good relationships with colleagues.

September is also Oddfellows friendship month.
Friendship is at the heart of the organisation, each September they get together to highlight the importance of having friends. So why not take this month to celebrate yours friends.

For more information, please visit the Awareness Days website

Published: Sep 13, 2023