Insights from our Long-Term Conditions Review - How are we Supporting your Physical and Mental Well-Being

The introduction of our Long-Term Condition Review has been met with enthusiastic feedback from both patients and their families. This new review structure allows us to dedicate more time to each patient, ensuring we address not only their physical health but also their overall well-being.

The reviews serve as a valuable platform for discussing what truly matters to our patients. By focusing on individual priorities, we can collaboratively explore how to best manage their long-term conditions in a holistic manner. This means considering physical, emotional, and social factors that impact their health.

During these reviews, patients work closely with our practice nurses to set realistic and achievable goals. Together, we create shared decision-making plans that empower patients in managing their conditions effectively. Importantly, these reviews also facilitate access to additional support services, such as GPs, pharmacists, social prescribers, and Talking Therapies.

Our nursing team has noted that the reviews have uncovered concerns like loneliness and isolation, particularly among older patients—issues that may have gone unnoticed before. We recognize the challenges faced by caregivers and relatives of older individuals, and we aim to provide them with the support they need as well.

We are committed to enhancing the quality of care through this comprehensive approach and look forward to continuing our partnership with you in managing your health. 

Di Lord, Practice Nurse and Long Term-Conditions Lead

The Hall Practice: Feedback and Future Focus - PPG Survey Results

We want to thank everyone who participated in our recent Patient Participation Group (PPG) survey.

Your feedback is invaluable in helping us enhance the care and services we provide. Below, we’ve summarised the key findings, included your comments, and outlined our responses and actions.

Key Findings: What We’re Doing Well

• Ease of Booking: Over 60% of respondents rated the booking process as “Very Easy” or “Easy.”
  
  
• Consultation Quality: Nearly 90% of respondents felt they had adequate time during consultations, and 78% rarely or never felt rushed.
  
  
• Communication Satisfaction: Approximately 74% expressed satisfaction with communication regarding treatment plans and follow-ups.
  
  
• Valued Continuity: Many patients emphasised the importance of seeing the same doctor consistently.

Your Feedback and Our Responses

1. Communication Methods

• Your Comments: '' Allow patients to communicate by email/WhatsApp/Text/Website. Having to use the phone is very frustrating.''

We understand that convenience is important when contacting the practice. However, to ensure security and confidentiality of your personal health information, we do not use email or WhatsApp for patient communication, as these are not secure methods for handling medical data.

We encourage you to use our online patient portal, which is available 24/7 for all your queries. Throught the portal, you can request appointments, order repeat prescriptions, submit medication queries, ask about test results and get administrative help, such as requesting fit notes or updating personal details. Our team reviews portal queries promptly, ensuring they reach the right member of staff as quickly as possible. Of course, if you prefer, you are always welcome to call the practice as well. 

• Your Comments: ''Better communication via text or email regarding referrals or test results to save patients needing to call and check''

We appreciate that timely communication about referrals and test results is important. The best way to access your medical records, check the status of referrals, and view test results is through the NHS App, where all this information is readily available.

All test results are carefully reviewed and commented on by a clinician, and any follow-up action needed will be communicated to you. However, due to the time and costs involved, we are unable to send individual messages for each test result. If a result requires urgent attention, we will contact you directly.

• Your Comments: ''More detail in SMS communications''

We agree that clear and detailed communication is important. However, our SMS messages are limited in length (160 characters per message) and come at a cost to the practice. To provide as much information as possible, we include links to additional details or direct patients to our website, where further guidance is available.

We recognise that this may not always be ideal, but due to funding constraints, we must balance the use of this technology while ensuring we can continue offering essential services. Many patients find text messaging helpful, particularly for appointment reminders and booking links, and we will continue to use it where possible.

For more detailed queries, we encourage patients to use the NHS App or our online portal, which provide comprehensive information and secure communication with the practice.

Your Feedback and Our Responses

2. Continuity of Care

• Your Comments: '' It's important to be able to see the same doctor each time you visit the surgery''

We recognise that continuity of care is important to many patients, and we are keen to support you in seeing the same doctor whenever possible.

To help explain this further, we will be adding a phone message from Dr. Yeomans when patients call to make an appointment request. This message will outline how you can request to see your preferred GP and how we prioritise appointments based on both clinical need and continuity of care.

While we will always do our best to accommodate requests for a specific GP, availability may vary. For ongoing health concerns, we aim to schedule follow-up appointments with the same clinician wherever possible.

3. Appointment Booking

• Your Comments: '' The online booking system needs replacing; it's complicate''

We are aware of some of the frustrations with our current online portal and are actively exploring ways to improve it with a new provider.

As part of this, we will be looking for a small PPG group to pilot the new system in the spring, helping us test and refine it before a full rollout. Keep an eye out for a PPG email soon with details on how you can get involved in this exciting development.

• Your Comments: '' It would be usefull to book directly after submitting a request, similar to blood test bookings''

Thank you for your suggestion. We are currently expanding our use of self-booking links for routine appointments, allowing patients to select a specific time and clinician at their convenience. Some patients who have recently been in contact with the practice may have already received these links as part of this rollout.

We are also working on a new online portal, which will give us greater flexibility in responding to patient requests and further improve the booking process. Our goal is to make appointment scheduling as efficient and convenient as possible.

We appreciate your patience as we continue to develop these improvements and look forward to sharing more updates soon.

Your Feedback and Our Responses

4. Test results and Follow-Ups

• Your Comments: '' Communication on blood test results is lacking; I've had to call to check if follow-ups are needed.''

We want to reassure you that all blood test results are reviewed and commented on by a GP, and these comments are visible in the NHS App. The app allows you to view your medical records, including test results, and will clearly state if any follow-up action is needed.

Due to the high volume of test results received each month, we are unable to contact each patient individually for normal results. However, we encourage patients to proactively check their results on the NHS App and to reach out if symptoms persist or concerns remain unresolved.

Acknowledging your Support

Many of you shared positive comments about your experience at The Hall Practice. We are humbled by your kind words and will continue striving for excellence.

Positive Comments:

• “I cannot fault The Hall Practice in any way. Wonderful support and advice.”
  
  
• “I feel lucky to be a patient at The Hall Practice; staff are sympathetic and knowledgeable.”
  
  
• “The Hall Practice performs very effectively despite increasing demands.”

Thank you for your encouragement—it really does motivates us to keep improving.

Feedback Results: Next Steps

We’re taking your feedback seriously and will provide updates on the changes we implement in response to your suggestions.

If you have further thoughts or would like to participate in shaping our improvement plans, please reach out via the PPG group or our website.

Together, we can create a practice that works even better for you.

Thank you for your trust and support.

Warm regards,
The Hall Practice Team

Finding Help this Winter - A Guide to Support Services in Buckinghamshire

During the cold weather months, it’s crucial to know where to seek help if you’re struggling. Here are some resources and support groups available:

Cold Weather Support Resources

• NHS Winter Health Services: The NHS provides guidance on how to manage health during the cold months, including advice on vaccinations and accessing healthcare if unwell. They recommend keeping your home warm (ideally at least 18 degrees Celsius) and checking on vulnerable individuals in your community.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/keep-warm-keep-well/
  
  
• Keep Warm, Keep Well Campaign: This initiative offers practical advice on maintaining warmth and health during winter, including financial support options for heating and home insulation.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.gov.uk/government/publications/keep-warm-keep-well-leaflet-gives-advice-on-staying-healthy-in-cold-weather/top-tips-for-keeping-warm-and-well-this-winter
  
  
• Emergency Contacts: If you are worried about someone’s health due to cold weather, you can contact local health services, including your GP or NHS 111 for immediate advice.

Support Groups in Buckinghamshire

• Bucks SafeHaven+ Project: This service provides mental health support to prevent crises and hospital admissions. It includes face-to-face group meetings and individual discussions with trained crisis support workers.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.connectionsupport.org.uk/buckinghamshire/
  
  ⇒ Telephone: 01296 484322
  
  
• South Buckinghamshire Rethink Group: A peer-led support group for carers that meets monthly in Beaconsfield. This group offers a friendly environment for sharing experiences and support.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.rethink.org/help-in-your-area/support-groups/south-buckinghamshire-rethink-group/ 
  
  ⇒ Email: info@rethink.org
  
  ⇒ Telephone: 0121 5227007
  
  
• Bucks Mind: They offer various mental health services aimed at reducing isolation and improving well-being. Their programs include crisis support and mental health education in schools.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.bucksmind.org.uk 
  
  ⇒ Email: info@bucksmind.org.uk
  
  ⇒ Telephone: 01494 463364 (Currently Monday to Thursday 10:00-15:30)
  
  
• Buckinghamshire Talking Therapies: This service assists individuals over 18 dealing with common mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, providing therapeutic support both individually and in groups.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/bucks-talking-therapies/ 
  
  ⇒ Telephone: 01865 901600
  
  
• Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS): For younger individuals, CAMHS provides assessments and treatments for mental health issues, available through referrals from schools or healthcare professionals.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/your-guide-to-support/guide-to-camhs/ 
  

Additional Support Options

• Age UK Helpline: For older adults needing assistance during cold weather, Age UK offers a helpline (0800 678 1602) that operates daily from 8 AM to 7 PM.
  
  ⇒ Website: www.ageuk.org.uk
  
  ⇒ Age UK Advice Line: 0800 6781602
  
  
• Community Support: Neighbours are encouraged to check on each other, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals, offering assistance with errands or health appointments.

These local resources aim to provide comprehensive support during the challenging winter months. 

World Cancer Day- ''United by Unique''

World Cancer Day is observed every year on 4 February, and in 2025, the theme is "United by Unique." This day is dedicated to raising awareness about cancer and encouraging its prevention, early detection, and treatment.

The "United by Unique" campaign focuses on placing people at the centre of cancer care, recognizing that everyone has unique needs and experiences. It emphasizes the importance of understanding individual stories behind each diagnosis, which can include feelings of grief, resilience, and hope. On this day, we are reminded that everyone has a role to play in reducing the impact of cancer. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can help improve care for all those affected by cancer.

To find out more about this campaign please visit www.worldcancerday.org

World Cancer Day - A Cancer Care Review at The Hall Practice

At The Hall Practice we understand that receiving a cancer diagnosis can affect you physically and emotionally. While a significant amount of your care and treatment will take place in hospital we are here to help and support you throughout your experience.

After your diagnosis you will receive a phone call from the GP that referred you for your investigations. During this phone call you may be sent a questionnaire to complete about your current needs. You will also be offered a follow up appointment with a member of our Nursing Team for a Cancer Care Review.

A Cancer Care Review is an opportunity to talk about your cancer experience and any concerns you may have. During this appointment you will find out more about support available within the community and other services that you may find useful. After your appointment you may be referred to specialist support services or our Social Prescriber.

You will be offered a Cancer Care Review within three months of your diagnosis and throughout your treatment if you wish. Most Cancer Care Reviews are telephone appointments, but they can also be face to face if you would prefer. You can also invite a carer, family member or friend to be part of the conversation.

We hope that by regular contact and support from the practice you will be able to have a personalised care plan that supports your needs. We also hope you will be reassured that we are following your diagnosis, understand your treatment plan and are here to help and support you throughout your experience

Victoria Perry-Adlam, Healthcare Assistant (HCA)

Get Ready for Heart Month - An Initiative from British Heart Foundation

Heart Month Activities

Heart Month is an annual initiative organized by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) that encourages community participation in activities aimed at promoting heart health. For 2025, the theme is "Go Red," where participants are encouraged to wear red and engage in various fundraising activities such as bake sales and sponsored challenges. The overarching goal is to raise funds for research into heart and circulatory diseases while promoting healthy lifestyle choice.

Participation and Impact

Individuals and organizations are encouraged to participate in Heart Month by:

• Wearing red to raise awareness.
  
  
• Organizing community events that promote heart health.
  
  
• Learning CPR through free sessions offered by various organizations.

This campaign not only seeks to save lives through education but also fosters community spirit and support for ongoing research into heart health. Please visit www.bhf.org.uk

LGBT+ History Month

LGBT+ History Month in the UK is celebrated every February, with the 2025 observance running from the 1st to the 28th. This annual event aims to honour the history and contributions of the LGBT+ community while raising awareness about ongoing issues related to equality and rights.

Founded in 2005 by the charity Schools OUT UK, LGBT+ History Month coincides with the abolition of Section 28, a law that prohibited the promotion of homosexuality in schools. Each year features a specific theme; for 2025, it will focus on "Activism and Social Change," highlighting the role of LGBT+ individuals in advocating for civil rights.

Throughout February, various events, educational activities, and discussions take place across the country to celebrate diversity and foster inclusivity within communities. Join in this important month to reflect on the past and inspire future progress! Visit their website LGBT+ History Month and find out more  about upcoming events.

Meet the Team - Dr Rachel Amess

I am a local girl having grown up in Chorleywood and went to Dr Challoner's High School. I did my GP training at Stoke Mandeville hospital and qualified in 1998. After qualifying, I initially went to work out in Nepal in a rural hospital in the foothills of the Himalayas for a year. It was an amazing experience which definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone! We had very limited resources and had to be quite inventive and pragmatic with our care. On my return I worked as a GP in Aylesbury and did sessions at Florence Nightingale Hospice. I then moved to Surrey, because of my husband's work, and worked as a Salaried GP in Crawley for 9 years. We returned to Bucks in 2009, and I became a salaried GP at Bedgrove in Aylesbury.

I was thrilled to join the Hall Practice in 2022 and have loved working with such a lovely, dynamic team. I love being able to walk to work, I am passionate about Care of the Elderly and enjoy going to Chalfont Lodge Nursing home every Monday. I work at Wexham Park hospital 2 days a week for the Frailty team.

In my spare time I enjoy walking in the Lake District and riding a tandem bicycle with my husband.

Meet the Team - Hayley Goodall - Healthcare Assistant (HCA)

I joined The Hall Practice in August 2023. I was with the District Nurses for 11 years prior and had worked in care homes.

You will find me in the practice on a Monday and a Wednesday. 

I support my patients with diabetic foot checks and  long-term condition reviews, focusing on how I can assist them. 

In the future, I hope to complete a mental health first aider course. 

Outside of work, I enjoy the great outdoors with my daughter and our horse, John.

Dr Jasraj Panesar's Departure from The Hall Practice

We would like to inform our patients that Dr Jasraj Panesar has retired from the partnership to pursue other opportunities. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr Panesar for his hard work and dedication during his time at the practice, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

Patients previously registered with Dr Panesar will now be allocated to either Dr Yeomans or Dr Turner, both of whom are partners at the practice. However, as always, all our patients are welcome to book appointments with any of our permanent GP.