MARDEN MEDICAL CENTRE PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP
News Updates
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Marden Medical Centre Update April 2021
The surgery door is only open for a few prearranged appointments and for collections from dispensary. Please do not attend with queries. Most issues are assessed by phone or video, including the need to be seen in person. Second Covid vaccines are now being given by the Ridge PCN and others. As of April 1st groups 1 -9 have been called for first vaccines.
Please refer to Ridge PCN website for further info https://theridgepcn.co.uk/about/covid_vaccinations_.phpThe building works are completed and the car park is reopened. Please observe all infection control measures in the building. Failure to comply without reason will result in us asking you to leave the premises
Posted: 02/04/2021
Please refer to Ridge PCN website for further info https://theridgepcn.co.uk/about/covid_vaccinations_.phpThe building works are completed and the car park is reopened. Please observe all infection control measures in the building. Failure to comply without reason will result in us asking you to leave the premises
- We are needing to impose new Zero Tolerance policies in the event of abusive or intolerant behaviour toward staff.
- Please collect medication at 9am to 1 pm or 2 - 6 pm to avoid busiest times. If you attend outside these times you may be asked to wait outside or in the car for 10 minutes
- Do not queue up to get an appointment. Instead, please book an on the day telephone assessment appointment using either:
- Patient online services from 8.25am onwards or
- Phone the 01622 831257 from 8.30am onwards
Posted: 02/04/2021
Marden Medical Centre Update
The following is a message from the staff at the surgery
From 1st of June the surgery door will be open for a limited number of prearranged appointments and collections from the dispensary.
We are continuing to assess most issues by phone or video consultation. Please collect medication at 12-2 pm or 4.30-6 pm to avoid busy times. This is a change from last month.
Please observe guidance on social distancing when queuing both in and outside the surgery. We would prefer all those entering the building to wear a face covering. Do not come to the surgery to book appointments, this should be done online or by phone.
Please do not attend the surgery if you have symptoms of cough, fever or loss of taste or smell.
Please share this message as widely as possible with friends, neighbours and family who may not have internet access.
Thank you very much.
Posted: 30/05/2020
From 1st of June the surgery door will be open for a limited number of prearranged appointments and collections from the dispensary.
We are continuing to assess most issues by phone or video consultation. Please collect medication at 12-2 pm or 4.30-6 pm to avoid busy times. This is a change from last month.
Please observe guidance on social distancing when queuing both in and outside the surgery. We would prefer all those entering the building to wear a face covering. Do not come to the surgery to book appointments, this should be done online or by phone.
Please do not attend the surgery if you have symptoms of cough, fever or loss of taste or smell.
Please share this message as widely as possible with friends, neighbours and family who may not have internet access.
Thank you very much.
Posted: 30/05/2020
An Update from Staff at Marden Medical Centre
We are enormously grateful to all of our patients for their understanding during these extraordinary times. The messages of thanks and support have meant so much to us all, particularly at times when we have been hit hard with staff sickness and have struggled to provide an essential service. We are now working as we have never worked before and you have adapted with us: THANK YOU!
Appointments
We are following RCGP, BMA and NHS England guidance and now only offer face to face appointments in exceptional circumstances. This is to avoid foot fall in the building to protect our staff and you. All clinical staff will be wearing full PPE for any face to face appointments and we now have the option to see patients in their cars in the marquee in the car park for simple tasks such as blood tests.
We are still doing the best we can to care for you but have to prioritise those patients who have the greatest medical need. We have stopped a number of non-essential tasks: e.g. private medical reports, ear syringing, minor surgery and travel vaccinations. ROUTINE child and adult immunisations are a high priority and we are continuing with these.
We have found that phone and video consultations (where technology allows) are working well. To maintain the safety of our staff we have a number of clinicians working from home using either secure NHS laptops or approved remote access log-in.
Prescriptions
Medication from dispensary can be collected from:
9:30-11am and 4:30-6pm.
Please ring the front door bell, a member of staff will either speak to you through the intercom or come to the door to assist.
If you pay for prescriptions please aim to do this with a card (ideally contactless)
Please allow 5 working days for processing of all repeat prescriptions. These should be posted through the letterbox.
We are enormously grateful to the PPG for their support in delivering medications from the surgery dispensary to patients who are unable to leave their homes.
Online Access
We would encourage all who are able to register for online access. This will enable you to book phone consultations online and request repeat prescriptions. Please go to the “Patient Access” area of our website. This process can now start from home, rather than visiting the surgery.
If you need help with getting this under way the Patient Participation Group may be able to help. Please approach the surgery in the first instance.
Communication
We are keen to keep providing you with up to date information and news. Please refer to our:
Website: www.mardenmedicalcentre.nhs.uk
Facebook page: NHS Marden Medical
Answerphone message: 01622 831257
If you know of neighbours, friends or family who do not have online access please keep passing information to them.
We look forward to happier times when we can return to some sense of normality but in the meantime please rest assured that caring for you and those you love is of the utmost priority to us.
Best Wishes from all the team at Marden Medical Centre
(written 9.4.2020, please note this may be subject to change over the coming weeks)
Appointments
We are following RCGP, BMA and NHS England guidance and now only offer face to face appointments in exceptional circumstances. This is to avoid foot fall in the building to protect our staff and you. All clinical staff will be wearing full PPE for any face to face appointments and we now have the option to see patients in their cars in the marquee in the car park for simple tasks such as blood tests.
We are still doing the best we can to care for you but have to prioritise those patients who have the greatest medical need. We have stopped a number of non-essential tasks: e.g. private medical reports, ear syringing, minor surgery and travel vaccinations. ROUTINE child and adult immunisations are a high priority and we are continuing with these.
We have found that phone and video consultations (where technology allows) are working well. To maintain the safety of our staff we have a number of clinicians working from home using either secure NHS laptops or approved remote access log-in.
Prescriptions
Medication from dispensary can be collected from:
9:30-11am and 4:30-6pm.
Please ring the front door bell, a member of staff will either speak to you through the intercom or come to the door to assist.
If you pay for prescriptions please aim to do this with a card (ideally contactless)
Please allow 5 working days for processing of all repeat prescriptions. These should be posted through the letterbox.
We are enormously grateful to the PPG for their support in delivering medications from the surgery dispensary to patients who are unable to leave their homes.
Online Access
We would encourage all who are able to register for online access. This will enable you to book phone consultations online and request repeat prescriptions. Please go to the “Patient Access” area of our website. This process can now start from home, rather than visiting the surgery.
If you need help with getting this under way the Patient Participation Group may be able to help. Please approach the surgery in the first instance.
Communication
We are keen to keep providing you with up to date information and news. Please refer to our:
Website: www.mardenmedicalcentre.nhs.uk
Facebook page: NHS Marden Medical
Answerphone message: 01622 831257
If you know of neighbours, friends or family who do not have online access please keep passing information to them.
We look forward to happier times when we can return to some sense of normality but in the meantime please rest assured that caring for you and those you love is of the utmost priority to us.
Best Wishes from all the team at Marden Medical Centre
(written 9.4.2020, please note this may be subject to change over the coming weeks)
Marden Medical Centre and Coronavirus
In view of the developing country wide situation we felt an update was appropriate on the situation as it stands in Marden.
The Medical Centre has to make quite significant changes to the usual routine. More appointments will be triaged and video consultations may be necessary. Please be understanding. The staff are under a great strain and have everyone’s interest are foremost in their strategies. Things may change even further as this pandemic proceeds.
For up to date information check out the Medical Centre Facebook Page:
NHS Marden Medical Centre
The Parish Council is setting up a community support group. The Medical Centre may refer patients to this group, provided they give consent.
Rachel the Parish deputy clerk is co-ordinating this group. If you wish to get in touch either for help or to volunteer the email is:
deputyclerk@mardenkent-pc.gov.uk.
Rachel’s telephone number is: 01622 832305
As a PPG we hope to set up a group to deliver prescriptions from the Medical Centre to people’s homes, again the Medical Centre will ask the patients permission. We are hoping this will start on Friday March 20th. More information will follow.
Social isolation can be difficult especially if you live alone. Think about others and yourself. Here are a few tips:
Please take care of yourselves.
Posted: 19/03/2020
The Medical Centre has to make quite significant changes to the usual routine. More appointments will be triaged and video consultations may be necessary. Please be understanding. The staff are under a great strain and have everyone’s interest are foremost in their strategies. Things may change even further as this pandemic proceeds.
For up to date information check out the Medical Centre Facebook Page:
NHS Marden Medical Centre
The Parish Council is setting up a community support group. The Medical Centre may refer patients to this group, provided they give consent.
Rachel the Parish deputy clerk is co-ordinating this group. If you wish to get in touch either for help or to volunteer the email is:
deputyclerk@mardenkent-pc.gov.uk.
Rachel’s telephone number is: 01622 832305
As a PPG we hope to set up a group to deliver prescriptions from the Medical Centre to people’s homes, again the Medical Centre will ask the patients permission. We are hoping this will start on Friday March 20th. More information will follow.
Social isolation can be difficult especially if you live alone. Think about others and yourself. Here are a few tips:
- A phone call to check on your friends, relatives and neighbours can make all the difference.
- If you have a smart phone set up What’s App with friends and family, say hello each morning, face time each other.
- If you belong to a choir or “Come and Sing”, sing down the phone together.
- If you belong to a book group, discuss the book on the phone or email your views to the group.
- If you like craft work, send pictures of your achievements or ask advice.
- Don’t forget your garden, send photographs of your flowers or a sunset or a favourite tree, via post, email, Facebook or What’s App so that everyone can be cheered up.
- Watch the same television programme or film and discuss it with a friend or relative.
Please take care of yourselves.
Posted: 19/03/2020
Marden Medical Centre is now triaging ANYONE with coughs, high temperatures or flu like illness by phone. They should not come to the surgery. There is also an option to do a video consultation if needed.
There is a Twitter account you can access on @ MardenMedical. A Facebook page should also be up and running today (Thursday 12th March 2020).
On a more positive note we would like to congratulate the practice for again receiving an “outstanding” from the CQC.
Posted: 12/03/2020
There is a Twitter account you can access on @ MardenMedical. A Facebook page should also be up and running today (Thursday 12th March 2020).
On a more positive note we would like to congratulate the practice for again receiving an “outstanding” from the CQC.
Posted: 12/03/2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
You will no doubt have seen and heard reports in the media on Monday 2 March 2020 about a confirmed COVID-19 case in Kent.
The full statement about this has been published on NHS West Kent Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG) website and can be accessed via this link.
Advice on coronavirus (COVID-19)
The advice shared below will be updated on the NHS West Kent CCG website advice page if and when it changes.
Contact NHS 111 online
NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do.
Use this service if:
- you think you might have coronavirus
- you've recently been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see the coronavirus advice for travellers
- you've been in close contact with someone with coronavirus.
Returning Travellers
If you have recently travelled to an affected area or been in contact with someone who has, and you think you have symptoms associated with the coronavirus, you should not go to A&E or your doctor but self-isolate yourself at home and contact NHS 111 online or by phone.
Information on countries and areas affected and specific advice (including maps) is available online.
Public Health England Advice
Everyone is being reminded to follow Public Health England advice to:
- Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
For more information on the symptoms and steps to take, go to www.nhs.uk/coronavirus
Specific information is also available through the following links:
- Blog / FAQ for the public
- Guidance for employers and businesses on providing advice to staff
- Guidance for health professionals
- Guidance for educational settings
- Guidance for those working in the transport sector
Posted: 05/03/2020
Self-Care Week
Self-Care week 14th to 24th November 2019 is a few days set aside to
highlight ways you can be in control of your health and life
Here are some tips:
Ask your pharmacist for help for minor ailments. Remember antibiotics do not help colds and flu. Don’t panic colds can take a week and a half to clear up.
For more tips about common ailments such as Lower Back Pain, Headaches and Indigestion see the Medical Centre website, the PPG newsletter or the NHS website. If any condition persists longer than recommended, then consult a doctor.
Lower Back Pain
This is very common. The advice is rest get on with normal activities if possible, keep moving, try ibuprofen or paracetamol. A hot water bottle may help to alleviate the pain. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, chiropractor or osteopath might help. If your symptoms don’t improve or you develop other symptoms such as numbness in your legs or bottom seek help.
Indigestion
Try indigestion tablets, avoid fatty foods, large meals late at night and carbonated drinks, coffee and alcohol. If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks consult a doctor.
Headaches
These are common and painkillers are usually effective. Take regular meals drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. If headaches occur for more than 10 to 15 days a month consult a doctor.
Posted: 07/11/2019
- Try to always mindful of your health and happiness, and so feel good about yourself.
- Stay healthy in both body and soul by being active both physically, mentally and eating well.
- 30 minutes of physical activity a day keeps the hospital bed away.
- Eat sensibly, keep portion sizes down, eat a rainbow a day (at least 400g of a variety of fruit and vegetables a day) and take Vitamin D in the winter. Don’t binge drink alcohol but keep your fluid intake high.
- Get plenty of sleep.
Ask your pharmacist for help for minor ailments. Remember antibiotics do not help colds and flu. Don’t panic colds can take a week and a half to clear up.
For more tips about common ailments such as Lower Back Pain, Headaches and Indigestion see the Medical Centre website, the PPG newsletter or the NHS website. If any condition persists longer than recommended, then consult a doctor.
Lower Back Pain
This is very common. The advice is rest get on with normal activities if possible, keep moving, try ibuprofen or paracetamol. A hot water bottle may help to alleviate the pain. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, chiropractor or osteopath might help. If your symptoms don’t improve or you develop other symptoms such as numbness in your legs or bottom seek help.
Indigestion
Try indigestion tablets, avoid fatty foods, large meals late at night and carbonated drinks, coffee and alcohol. If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks consult a doctor.
Headaches
These are common and painkillers are usually effective. Take regular meals drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol. If headaches occur for more than 10 to 15 days a month consult a doctor.
Posted: 07/11/2019
Marden as a Dementia Friendly Community
If you are interested in helping to make Marden a Dementia Friendly Community or just curious on how this can be achieved, there is a meeting at the John Banks Hall on July 10th at 7 pm.
For more information email Rachel at livingmemories@mardenchurch.org or contact Rachel Cachon on 01622 831941.
It could be an interesting evening.
For more information email Rachel at livingmemories@mardenchurch.org or contact Rachel Cachon on 01622 831941.
It could be an interesting evening.
Are You Looking to Achieve a Healthier Lifestyle?
Then why not join the ‘West Kent Challenge Couch to 5K’ which is taking place across the whole of the West Kent area.
The aim of the challenge is to get people of all ages and abilities walking or running up to 5k in just twelve weeks. For those who enjoy using technology, the free One You ‘Couch to 5k’ app www.nhs.uk/oneyou/apps#mw3iefvVk1dv7Spz.97 gives step-by-step instructions on weekly podcasts designed to get people off the couch and running in just nine weeks!
We now know that it’s the small changes that can make a huge difference to your health so why not start today by taking the One You online quiz? One You aims to encourage adults, particular those aged 40-74, to take control of their health to enjoy significant benefits now, and in later life. One You Kent offers fantastic local support and information to help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/health/one-you-kent
The One You Kent website also provides a comprehensive selection of health and fitness information as well as the opportunity to book a session with a One You advisor for help in setting achievable health goals. This includes information about stopping smoking and support reducing alcohol intake, advice for maintaining a healthy weight as well as advice on a range of lifestyle issues.
The aim of the challenge is to get people of all ages and abilities walking or running up to 5k in just twelve weeks. For those who enjoy using technology, the free One You ‘Couch to 5k’ app www.nhs.uk/oneyou/apps#mw3iefvVk1dv7Spz.97 gives step-by-step instructions on weekly podcasts designed to get people off the couch and running in just nine weeks!
We now know that it’s the small changes that can make a huge difference to your health so why not start today by taking the One You online quiz? One You aims to encourage adults, particular those aged 40-74, to take control of their health to enjoy significant benefits now, and in later life. One You Kent offers fantastic local support and information to help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. www.kent.gov.uk/social-care-and-health/health/one-you-kent
The One You Kent website also provides a comprehensive selection of health and fitness information as well as the opportunity to book a session with a One You advisor for help in setting achievable health goals. This includes information about stopping smoking and support reducing alcohol intake, advice for maintaining a healthy weight as well as advice on a range of lifestyle issues.