PREVENTATIVE MEDICINE
Child Vaccinations
All children should commence the immunisation programme from two months old. You will receive invitations to attend our child clinics. Clinics are run every alternate Wednesday morning between 11am and 12noon and 3.15pm to 4.15pm. Detailed information regarding childhood vaccinations.
Cervical Cytology
Women between the ages of 25 to 65 will receive an invitation for a cervical smear test. This procedure should be performed routinely at three to five year intervals depending on age. Smears will be done more frequently where necessary.
Family Planning
A full range of family planning is available at the surgery, including coil fitting and advice on safe sex.
Influenza
Annual protection against influenza is offered to senior citizens and those at high risk, e.g., with chronic heart, chest, some breathing disorders, and diabetes.
Mammography
Women aged 50 to 70 years will be offered a mammogram every three years by Somerset Breast Screening.
NHS Health Checks
NHS Health checks are available for patients aged between 40 to 73 years who have not had a check in the last five years, who are not on a statin, and who are not already suffering from one of the following conditions: hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, atrial fibrillation or stroke*.
The Health Check involves an assessment of your risks for developing heart disease and a simple examination, e.g., blood pressure, urine check and cholesterol level if appropriate. This is particularly important if you smoke, or have a family history of coronary heart disease at an early age (less than 60 years). Our practice nurses will give advice and follow-up support on giving up smoking, losing weight, lowering your cholesterol levels and following a healthy lifestyle.
[*If you have one of these conditions then you should already be monitored regularly by us].
Pre-pregnancy advice
Pre-pregnancy advice is offered by the doctors and midwife for those thinking of becoming pregnant. It is essential that you stop smoking, reduce your alcohol intake to a minimum, ensure an adequate daily intake of the vitamin folic acid in your diet, and check with your doctor about any medication you are taking. As a general rule don't take any drugs, including those bought over the counter, in pregnancy, unless advised by your doctor. All pregnant women should attend the antenatal clinic as soon as possible. We offer full antenatal and postnatal care in partnership with Shepton Mallet Maternity Unit.
Tetanus & Polio
Protection against tetanus and polio should be kept up to date. A full primary course with a booster at 15 should be followed by at least two boosters at 10 year intervals to protect throughout life.
Travel Immunisations
Please visit Fit for Travel. Our Practice Nurses are able to give NHS vaccinations. Information regarding Travel Immunisations.
