Clinics and Specialities

Diabetes
We offer all diabetic patients a six monthly review with our diabetic specialist nurses Sister Ann Speckman or Sister Caroline Dalton. Patients will be asked to attend for blood tests two weeks beforehand. During the appointment blood sugar, blood cholesterol readings, blood pressure, foot and eye care, along with kidney function will all be assessed. Advice will also be given on diet, exercise, smoking and alcohol, also flu and pneumonia vaccinations will be offered.

Diabetic Retinopathy screening is offered annually by a mobile unit from the University Hospitals of Leicester. Some local optometrists also offer this in conjunction with Peterborough Hospital, (Carl Love – Uppingham 01572 822 920, Christine Pirrie – Stamford 01780 753 488, Simmons – Oakham 01572 756 434).

Good control of diabetes helps prevent complications in the future.

Coronary Heart Disease
Patients who have had angina, heart attacks or coronary bypass grafts are offered an annual review with one of the nurses. They will be asked to attend for cholesterol blood testing two weeks beforehand. Blood pressure, cholesterol, diet, exercise, alcohol, smoking and weight and medication will be reviewed, and flu and pneumonia vaccinations will be offered. It will be ensured that the necessary preventative medication is prescribed.

Cholesterol control and regular exercise can prevent heart disease.

Asthma / COPD
Annual reviews are undertaken by Sister Christine Westwood. During these reviews patients will have a check of lung function, and be given advice on acute asthma attacks. Advice is available for those wishing to stop smoking, avoid trigger factors and improve lifestyle. All those with asthma or chest problems should have flu and pneumonia vaccinations.

Flu Vaccinations
We will be running an open access flu clinic from 8.30am-12.00 on Saturday 3rd October & Saturday 17th at the Uppingham Surgery. Branch surgery flu clinic will be held at the end of the nurse lead clinics 10.30am - 11.00am. Catching flu can be very serious, even fatal for some people and vaccination is recommended for all those who :-

• Are over 65 years of age

• Suffer from Diabetes

• Suffer from Heart Disease

• Suffer from Asthma/COPD

• Suffer from Kidney Disease

• Suffer from Immunosuppression

• Live in residential institutions

Flu vaccinations are required annually; if you are in an at-risk group you should also have a one off pneumonia vaccination.

Child Immunisations
Appointments for childhood immunisations are sent directly by the Health Authority. If you have any questions the Health Visitor Victoria Hubbard will be happy to answer them, or you may discuss with your GP. NHS direct carry up to date information on all vaccinations, (Tel: 0845 46 47).

Family Planning
Family planning advice including morning after contraception, is available from all our doctors and Sister Mandy Robertson. All consultations are strictly confidential, including those patients under 16.

Well Woman Screening
The Health Authority will send reminders to all women due for a smear test; please ring and book an appointment with Sister Mandy Robertson, Sister Christine Westwood or Sister Ann Speckman. They will also check blood pressure, screen urine for kidney problems and diabetes, and advise on diet, smoking, alcohol and exercise.

Well Man Screening
Appointments can be made on request with a nurse who will check blood pressure, weight, and test urine for diabetes and kidney disease. Requests may also be made for cholesterol and prostate cancer screening (PSA) tests. Advice will be given on diet, smoking, alcohol, exercise and testicular self-examination.