Many GP practices cap the number of patients they’ll see each day, directing the rest to Minor Injuries, Walk In Centres or A&E. Spilsby Surgery doesn’t – yet – and as a consequence our doctors and nurses are being spread very thinly. We’ve identified a short list of things you can do to help your fellow patients.

• Use common sense before you contact the NHS. Please don’t contact us about a minor ailment without first consulting My Health Lincolnshire, NHS 111 or Spilsby Cooperative Pharmacy.
• We know as much about dentistry as your postman. We aren’t trained or insured to treat dental pain or abscesses and won’t be tempted to try. Contact your dentist or 111.
• Keep or cancel valuable appointments – at the surgery and at the hospital. In 2017 we are going to have to get tougher with patients who repeatedly waste the appointments you need.
• If you’ve a question about your hospital care, or the hospital haven’t issued you a medical certificate, contact your specialist’s secretary and not us. If they won’t help, then contact the Patient Advice & Liaison Service (PALS).
• Be organised. Book agreed follow up appointments well in advance of when they’re needed. Don’t run out of your regular medicines. Your urgency may prove to be at the expense of someone else’s medical emergency.

January 2017