14/08/20
We apologise for any delays patients may experience at the moment with our telephones being answered. We have a serious staff shortage in the reception team over the next month which means we do not always have enough staff to answer the phones in a timely manner. We are very sorry about this.
For any ROUTINE matters, please continue to use the e-Consult link below to contact the surgery and GPs rather than telephoning the surgery. We will respond to you by the end of the next working day.
E-Consult
What is eConsult? Watch the video link below to see what eConsult is about and how to do it.
Online consultations are as easy as 1, 2, 3 …
Online consultations are a quick and simple alternative to visiting your GP practice.
Here’s how to you can consult with your GP online, in three easy steps.
1. Click the above link for eConsult or download the NHS app
2. Fill out the form - it is simple and only takes a few minutes.
You can use it to:
• Ask about an existing condition or new symptoms (it’s important to include as much information about your symptoms as possible as this helps the clinician decide the next step)
• Get information about your condition and how to treat yourself
• Discuss a test result and request sick notes.
3. Get a quick response
Once you've submitted the form, we will normally let you know the next step by the end of the next working day. This might be advice on what to do next or we may decide you need a face-to-face appointment. If you want to consult online but don't have access to a device or the internet, a staff member will be happy to help you fill it out on your behalf over the phone.
Coronavirus (Covid-19) Information
Appointments
We are reducing the number of patients attending the surgery. For URGENT matters, these will be dealt with by the Urgent Care Team. This means if your need is urgent, you will be put on to a list for a same day call back from the Urgent Care Team. Book an urgent call online via SystmOnline if you are registered, or call 01271 376655.
Our phone lines are very busy at this time. For NON-URGENT matters, you can contact us via the NHS App and 'start an online consultation', or complete an e-Consult by clicking on the link above on the home page. You will receive a prompt response by the end of the next working day. A limited number of routine telephone calls with the clinicians are also available two weeks in advance and are bookable through reception.
If the GP or Nurse asks you to come to the surgery, or you have a booked appointment, please use the self check-in screen in the front hallway of the surgery to check yourself in and follow the on screen instructions on where to go. Please ensure you wear a face mask or face covering before entering the practice and do not enter the building if you have any of the Covid-19 symptoms.
We encourage the use of your online services, SystmOnline if you are registered and also the E-consult facility on our website which enables you to consult with the GP, without the need to register. You can contact NHS 111 when we are closed
Prescriptions
We are no longer accepting paper medication requests from patients. Prescription requests should be sent electronically via SystmOnline if you are registered, by email to d-ccg.fremingtonprescriptions@nhs.net, by e-Consult via the link above, or telephone and speak to one of our reception team to order your medication. Please understand that our phone lines are very busy at the moment because of this.
We are no longer issuing paper scripts so please ensure you have a nominated pharmacy for electronic prescribing. We also cannot process any early prescription requests so please don’t order your medication early. They will be returned to the pharmacy or emailed back to you if you do.
If you have requested a prescription from us, please be assured that we will get it done and sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy as soon as possible. Our phone lines are extremely busy at the moment so please avoid calling us to simply see if your prescription has been processed.
Please DO NOT stockpile medications. This can lead to shortage of items, making it difficult for pharmacies to obtain them. Order your medication at the normal time.
Isolation Sick/Fit Notes
Sick/fit notes for any Covid-19 will be issued via NHS 111 online and not via GP surgeries. Please do not ring us for a sick/fit note if you have to self-isolate or have the virus. Click on this link 111.nhs.uk/isolation-note/ if you are on 7 or 14 day isolation and require a sick note for work.
Routine Reviews
We have started doing routine reviews again so if you receive a text message or letter asking you to book your review, please call us on 01271 376655 to arrange. The majority of reviews will be done by telephone although face to face reviews are possible when a telephone review is not appropriate.
Changes to Online Booking
We are temporarily suspending online bookings on SystmOnline, for face to face appointments. You will still see bookable blood test and GP telephone appointments online if they are available.
NSPCC
Home isn't always a safe place. Schools closing could put some children at greater risk of abuse and neglect and that's why we're supporting the NSPCC. If you're worried about a child or young person, or if you notice that something just doesn't seem right, the NSPCC is here. You can talk to their helpline team who offer free support and guidance on 0808 800 5000 (8am-10pm Mon-Fri / 9am-6pm Weekends) or you can email help@nspcc.org.uk 24/07.
Click on the logo to visit the NSPCC Website
Every Mind Matters
The Coronavirus outbreak means that for the time being, life has changed dramatically. We'll all be experiencing highs and lows and it's perfectly normal to miss loved ones, get frustrated, or feel anxious or stressed. This is a temporary situation and for most of us these difficult feelings will pass.
Stay Well at Home Isolation Pack
If you are struggling in self-isolation, one NHS trust has published a helpful pack on how to 'Stay Well at Home in Self-Isolation'. It includes guidance on social distancing and helpful tips to manage anxiety and plan a balanced daily routine. Click here to view the pack.
Looking after your mental wellbeing is just as important as looking after your physical wellbeing, especially at the moment when the nation is staying at home to protect the NHS and save lives.
The NHS has launched its Every Mind Matters website with lots of advice to help us all take care of our mental health and wellbeing right now. It includes tips and practical steps on looking after yourself, dealing with stress, boosting your mood and general ways to help you cope during the lockdown.
Click on the logo to visit the Every Mind Matter Website
Stay Well at Home Isolation Pack
If you are struggling in self-isolation, one NHS trust has published a helpful pack on how to 'Stay Well at Home in Self-Isolation'. It includes guidance on social distancing and helpful tips to manage anxiety and plan a balanced daily routine. Click here to view the pack.
Volunteer Support
Fremington Support - The Fremington community has come together to support local vulnerable people who are self-isolating and may need help with prescription collection or dog walking. Go to http://fremingtonsupport.org to find out more.
NHS Volunteer Responders - Patients who are alone or self-isolating can also receive support from NHS Volunteer Responders with such things as shopping, medication, transport or telephone support if you are at risk of loneliness. If you feel you might benefit from the NHS Volunteer Responders scheme, please call the surgery.
Coronavirus Community Support Service - North Devon Council has launched a dedicated phoneline and online form for the most vulnerable residents in need of support who haven't already got help from family, friends, neighbours and their local community. Go to
https://www.northdevon.gov.uk/coronavirus/communities-and-voluntary-sector-support/
Covid-19 Scams
Unfortunately scams are on the rise. Trading Standards have created an information sheet with advice on scams relating to Covid-19. Please Stay Home, Stay Safe, Stay Scam Aware.
(Site updated 27/08/2020)