Monkspath Surgery |
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CLINICS Under a contract with Solihull Care Trust, which began in April 2004, the practice provide services which are defined as: There are some services, which are not covered by the NHS, for which the doctor will make a charge in line with BMA recommendations, including completing private health insurance forms, passport forms, medicals for pre-employment, HGV etc. These fees are reviewed on a regular basis and a list is available at reception.
If you have any doubts about any of the immunisations please speak to either your doctor or one of our health visitors. General Health Advice Don’t Smoke! Smoking is the most important risk factor as far as your health is concerned. It is important not to smoke cigarettes in particular, but any smoking is bad for you. Heart disease, cancer (of various types, not just the lung), asthma, bronchitis and many other conditions are caused or worsened by smoking. Non-smokers are put at risk by smokers too. The children of smokers have much more illnesses, such as asthma and chest and ear infections, than those in non-smoking households. Babies still in the womb grow more slowly and are more likely to be miscarried if their mothers smoke. Giving up is difficult but it is well worth the effort. Your local pharmacist will assist you with advice regarding nicotine-containing cigarette substitutes. Alcohol It is important to moderate your intake. The recommended limits for men are 28 units and for women 21 units per week. One unit of alcohol is equivalent to half a pint of beer, one glass of wine, or one pub measure of spirits. It is sensible to have at least three alcohol free days during the week. Diet A well balanced diet is essential for good health. For most people, this means eating at least five portions a day of fresh fruit or vegetables together with plenty of fibre as well as less animal fat and sugar. Too much red meat is not desirable but fresh fish containing protein, vitamins and minerals is a good alternative. Weight Obesity contributes to many conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes. The practice nurse can tell you the most desirable weight for you and how to achieve it. If this includes a weight-reducing diet, please remember that this may well mean staying on a diet, not just to achieve the weight loss, but to maintain it. Sun Screen It is very important when going on holiday or on sunny days in this country to wear sun block to prevent the development of skin cancer. Weather reports now tell you when you are at risk of burning. A high factor sun block provides most protection. Exercise Regular exercise is very beneficial. Cycling, swimming, jogging or even brisk walking are all ideal. Cervical Smears Between the ages of 25 and 60, women who are or have been sexually active should have a smear test taken every three years. Please make an appointment with our nurse for this to be done. Breast Awareness And Mammography Every woman should know how their breasts look and feel. A general check, for example whilst showering or bathing, every now and then is very sensible. If any lumps or other changes develop, they should be reported to your doctor without delay. From 50 to 64 all women should have a mammogram carried out every three to five years and our surgery uses the NHS Breast Screening Service for this. |
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