Westbrook Medical Centre

Other Information

What To Do When Somebody Dies

When someone dies either at home or in hospital, it is obviously a difficult time for everyone close to them. Unfortunately at this time there are a lot of important things which need to be done, such as obtaining a death certificate, registering a death etc.

Many people find dealing with these unfamiliar responsibilities can be upsetting and confusing. To help with this there is a DSS booklet available which contains a lot of useful information and advice. A copy can be obtained from the surgery.

If you need more advice on what to do at this time, either your doctor or undertaker may be able to help you.

NHS Direct

Direct is a 24-hour nurse-led confidential helpline providing advice and information about what to do if you are feeling ill, health concerns for you and your family, local health services and self-help and support services.

NHS Direct is available to all patients and they will advise on your condition and the action you should take.

Their telephone number is 0845 4647 and is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

Staying Healthy

To provide quality care we operate a number of recall systems. Invitations are regularly sent out if you are taking medication that requires monitoring.

We follow national guidelines in the monitoring of chronic diseases. Most of this is done by our practice nurses under the direction of the doctors. You may receive a telephone call or a letter asking you to make an appointment.

Annual monitoring of blood pressure and lifestyle advice is available for all patients over 16 years from our practice nurses.

Medical Examinations

We are able to offer non-NHS services to patients. These include:

* Private sick notes
* Adoption / pre-employment / HGV medicals
* Insurance medicals
* 'To whom it may concern' letters

A charge will be made for these services. Please enquire at reception for details.

Freedom Of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 obliges the practice to produce a Publication Scheme. A Publication Scheme is a guide to the 'classes' of information the practice intends to routinely make available.
This scheme is available from reception.

Violence And Abuse

We will not tolerate violent behaviour or abuse towards any member of our staff. Any such behaviour from patients will result in immediate removal from our list and will be referred to our Primary Care Trust.