Blackmore Vale launches health event series in response to patient feedback

The Blackmore Vale Partnership GP Practice, in conjunction with the Patient Participation Group (PPG) is holding a series of Health Events over the next 6 months to help patients in a variety of ways.

Following a survey organised by the Dorset General Practice Alliance about people’s confidence in looking after their own health, in response to the question “What support would you like in relation to this” most people said – “Recognising signs of serious health issues”.  As a result, the first event on Red Flag Symptoms was a great success, with more than 80 patients turning up at the Exchange, Sturminster Newton.

Dr Simone Yule, Senior Partner; Gemma Rees, Advanced Care Practitioner and Kay Green, Practice Pharmacist covered a wide range of common conditions and talked about how patients could help themselves, how to alleviate symptoms and as importantly, how to recognise when they needed to refer to the pharmacy or the practice.

There were many questions and an immense amount of information and help was passed on.

Two members from the Wellbeing Team were there to help several patients set up and log on to the NHS App and SystmOnline through the Practice website, where they can look at their Patient Record, order medication and look at blood test results.

Following other responses in the survey, the Health Events over the next 6 months will cover - Diabetes and Hypertension; Children and Young People’s Health: Respiratory; Nutrition and Dermatology.

Ian Gall, Patient and Public Lead the Alliance said,

“It’s really important for patients, if they are able, to take control of their health and as such reduce the risk of developing complications or worsening existing conditions.  This leads to improved wellbeing and a higher quality of life.  These Health Events provide the information and support to help them in this.”

The next Health Event will focus on Diabetes and High Blood Pressure, and takes place on Wednesday 16th April, 6:30–8:00pm at Father’s House, Christy’s Lane, Shaftesbury. Dr Patterson, Kay Green, and the Wellbeing Team will be available to offer advice, answer questions, and signpost local support services.

For more information visit their website or social media pages: Blackmore Vale Partnership