Appointments

We run an appointment system at each surgery. Appointments can be made in person between 08:30 and 18:00, or by telephoning between 08:00 and 18:30 Monday to Friday.

Online Booking

To register for these services please visit our surgery with one form of photographic identification, either a passport or driving license. Your security details will then be issued to you. Under 16’s can also be registered and will be provided with individual log in details in the same way, therefore, parents and guardians will need to ensure these security details are kept secure.

Once registered you can access the system via the link at the top of this page.

We offer appointments from 08:30 but individual doctors' times vary according to other commitments at the other branch surgery etc.

If your request for an appointment is not urgent, wherever possible would you please telephone the surgery after 10:00. Your co-operation would be appreciated.

Telephone Triage

If your request for an appointment is "for today" a doctor may telephone you to discuss your requirements so that you are dealt with in the most appropriate manner. This will involve the GP phoning you back within a relatively short time to discuss your needs.

Telephone Access

The doctor may not be able to speak to you during surgery unless your enquiry is urgent. The doctor will usually be able to ring you back after morning surgery by arrangement with the receptionist.

Email

We are happy to communicate with our patients by email however, it is not a suitable means of communication for urgent matters or booking appointments and patients are advised to telephone in such circumstances.  NON URGENT medical queries can be submitted via e-consult.

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.

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 reception before 10:00.

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.

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.

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 (where this information was sourced).