OUT OF HOURS If you need to contact the Doctor for an urgent medical problem out of hours (when the surgery is closed), phone NORTH & WEST URGENT CARE @ 90744447. The Doctors of this Practice or a local General Practitioner will be on duty to advise you and if necessary examine you at the centre which is based opposite the Mater Hospital Casualty on the Crumlin Rd. In the event of a Patient being medically too ill to travel, a home visit may be arranged or transfer to hospital.
TEACHING
This practice is recognised by the Department of Health for teaching undergraduate medical students from Queen's University. On occasions Patients may be asked to co-operate regarding history taking, physical examination and videotaping of consultations. Please don't hesitate to refuse if you feel at all uncomfortable.
Most years a Registrar is attached to the Practice. These Doctors have completed their University Training and three or four years in hospital, having gained a broad experience in Obstetrics, Gynaecology, Paediatrics & General Medicine. They are about to become General Practitioners in their own right.
TRAVEL VACCINATIONS
and appropriate vaccinations can be arranged on site. Phone first with departure dates and destinations and discuss with the doctor. Vaccinations usually need to be given a month before departure.
CERVICAL SMEARS
can be performed by our Doctors or Practice Nurse Clare. We recommend a smear every 3 years.
MINOR OPERATIONS
such as wart removal & joint injections can usually be performed on site.
PREGNANCY.
It is now recommended that women who are planning a pregnancy should take folic acid for three months prior to conception and for another three months after this. This has been shown to reduce the incidence of Spina Bifida. Folic acid is found in some green vegetables and available on prescription.
HEART DISEASE
Any patient with heart disease should consider taking a daily aspirin tablet, ask your Doctor for advice. Anyone on warfarin must have an "annual review".
RESPIRATORY DISEASE
Any patient on inhalers should attend the Respiratory Nurse for a demonstration on inhaler technique.
IN HOUSE CLINICS
Diabetes, Asthma, COPD and Cholesterol clinics are run by our Nurse Clare Crummey - for up to date advice on diet, drugs and monitoring.
CHAPERONES
We welcome the use of chaperones for any examinations - feel free to bring a friend, or ask for a Nurse or Health Care Manager to be present.
MINORS
Under sixteen years old - are not allowed to collect prescriptions & we suggest you are accompanied for consultations.
PRACTICE AREA.
The Practice covers an area which is within ten miles from the centre of Belfast.
REGISTRATION
To register as a Patient with the Practice ask at Reception for an application form. Patients may see any Doctor at the Practice of their choice.
SUGGESTIONS, COMMENTS & COMPLAINTS
We are interested to hear - please write to The Practice Manager, Mrs Joy Taylor.
This practice is contracted to the Eastern Health & Social Services Board, Champion House,
12-22 Linenhall Street Belfast BT2 8BR Tel: 02890321313