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MASK POLICY

Although the national restrictions on mask wearing have now been lifted, our staff and patients are still required to wear a mask at our surgery, unless they are exempt from doing so. 

We are working tirelessly to follow infection prevention and control protocols at our practice, and mask-wearing remains an essential part of this - helping to limit the transmissin and protect our most vulnerable patients. 

We're also continuing to follow social distancing measures, so please keep an eye on the signs around our surgery and maintain a two metre distance from others. 

If you're unable to wear a mask, please let the team know when you arrive,  and the clinician will make an appropriate decision based on your circumstances to ensure you receive treatment in the safest possible way. 

The Current NHS Digital (NHSD) extract of GP data for Research purposes, known as the GPDPR, has been delayed due to NHSD wishing to review the way in which this data will be collected, to conduct more public involvement and information about the plans and to change the way in which patients can opt out of the extract of their GP data. Currently, the only way to opt out is to complete a Type 1 opt-out form and return this to the practice by 1st September. However, this extract will not be taken until NHSD changes the way it will take the data and respect the patient's choice for using their data. NHSD are introducing the following changes to the opt out process:

• Patient's do not need to register a Type 1 opt-out by 1st September to ensure their GP data will not be uploaded. 
• NHS Digital will create the technical means to allow GP data that has previously been uploaded to the system via the GPDPR collection to be deleted when someone registers a Type 1 opt-out, enabling you to opt out at any time. 
• The plan to retire Type 1 opt-outs will be deferred for at least 12 months whilst NHSD get the arrangments up and running and will not be implemented without consultation with the RCGP, the BMA and the National Data Guardian. 

We will update you when we know more about the NHSD plans to change how you can control who has access to your data. 

In addition to the practice's normal opening hours and the additional surgery opening times as stated above, you can also book an appointment to see a local clinician in the evenings or on Saturday and Sunday at locations across South Worcestershire.

South Worcestershire Healthcare are working alongside practices in South Worcestershire to ensure patients can book into improved access (IA), available 7 days a week, and have set up a telephone number to enable patients to contact them between the hours of  Mon - Fri 09:00-17:00 and Sat-Sun 9-12

This means that your extended access appointment may be with a different GP or Nurse that you are used to, and these appointments are only telephone consultations, or video consultations if needed. 

You can pre-book these appointments yourself by calling the Improved Access Direct Line 01905 969864.