Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust (LSCFT) offers comprehensive Treatment Room Services designed to support individuals with various healthcare needs. These services encompass a wide range of clinical interventions, including:
Wound Assessment and Management: Professional evaluation and care for different types of wounds.
Ear Care: Services such as ear irrigation and micro-suction to address ear-related concerns.
Leg Ulcer and Vascular Services: Specialized assessment and treatment for leg ulcers and related vascular conditions.
To ensure timely service, patients are encouraged to arrive promptly for their appointments. If unable to attend, please inform the respective centre as soon as possible to reschedule.
Immunisations
Immunisations are a crucial aspect of maintaining your health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Vaccines protect not only you but also those around you by reducing the likelihood of outbreaks in the community. Staying up-to-date with your immunisations is essential for your overall health and wellbeing.
At Fishergate Hill Surgery, we offer a range of immunisations for adults, including:
Influenza Vaccine
Who Should Get It: Recommended for everyone over the age of 18 with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, and the elderly. All children aged 2 and 3 years (provided they were aged 2 or 3 on 31 August 2024), all primary school children and some secondary school children (years 7 to 11).
When: Annually, before the flu season.
Pneumococcal Vaccine
Who Should Get It: Recommended for adults over 65 and individuals with certain medical conditions.
When: A single dose is usually sufficient, but booster doses may be required based on individual health needs.
Shingles Vaccine
Who Should Get It: Recommended for adults aged 50 and over.
When: A one-time vaccination is provided to help prevent shingles, a painful rash caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.
COVID-19 Vaccine
Who Should Get It: All adults are encouraged to stay up-to-date with their COVID-19 vaccinations, including boosters.
When: Depending on current guidelines and recommendations.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine
Who Should Get It: Recommended for older adults, particularly those over 60 or with certain underlying health conditions.
When: The vaccination schedule may vary, so it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider.
Cervical Screening
Cervical screening (also known as a smear test) is a crucial procedure offered at our GP surgery. It involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix (the lower part of the uterus) to detect any abnormalities that may develop into cancer.
Why is Cervical Screening Important?
Cervical screening is crucial because:
Early Detection: It identifies abnormal changes in the cervix before they can develop into cancer.
Prevention: Regular screening can significantly reduce the risk of cervical cancer, which is highly preventable with appropriate medical intervention.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your cervical health status can help alleviate anxiety and lead to better health management.
Who Should Get Screened?
Age Group: Women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited for cervical screening.
Frequency:
Ages 25-49: Every three years.
Ages 50-64: Every five years.
Exceptions: Those who have had a hysterectomy may not need to be screened, but it’s important to discuss individual circumstances with your GP.
What to Expect During a Cervical Screening Appointment
Preparation: You will receive an invitation letter when it’s time for your screening. It’s best to book your appointment at a time when you are not on your period.
The Test: During the appointment, a trained healthcare professional will use a speculum to gently open the vagina and collect a small sample of cells from the cervix. The procedure is quick, usually taking only a few minutes.
After the Test: You may experience some light discomfort or spotting, but this typically resolves quickly.
Results: You will receive your results within a few weeks. If any abnormalities are detected, we will guide you through the next steps.
How to Book Your Appointment
Cervical screening is offered at Fishergate Hill Surgery. To book your appointment, please contact our reception team. If you have any questions or concerns about the screening process, don’t hesitate to ask our staff. For more information on cervical screening, visit the NHS Cervical Screening page.
Chronic Disease Management
Our GP surgery provides dedicated clinics to help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, COPD, hypertension, and heart disease. Regular monitoring is essential for maintaining your health and preventing complications. During these clinics, our trained clinical staff will assess your condition, review medications, and provide lifestyle advice tailored to your needs.
These appointments ensure your condition is managed effectively, with timely adjustments to your treatment plan. We aim to provide ongoing support to help you lead a healthier, more active life. All patients requiring these checks will receive invitations for routine appointments annually.
Travel Vaccinations
Planning to travel abroad? Our GP surgery offers a full range of travel vaccinations to help protect you from diseases that may be prevalent in your destination. Whether you’re heading to tropical regions or developing countries, we provide vaccines such as hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and more.
During your appointment, our clinicians will assess your travel plans and medical history to recommend the right vaccines. We also offer advice on malaria prevention, food safety, and general travel health tips.
It’s important to organise your travel vaccinations well in advance. We require a form to be completed (available from reception) at least 10 weeks before your departure, as some vaccines require multiple doses for full protection.
For more information or to schedule your vaccinations, please contact the surgery. You can also visit travelhealthpro.org.uk for more information about the country you are visiting.
The following travel vaccines are available free on the NHS from your GP surgery:
The cost of travel vaccines that are not available on the NHS will vary, depending on the vaccine and number of doses you need.
It’s worth considering this when budgeting for your trip.
Minor Surgery
Our GP surgery offers minor surgery clinics for treating a variety of minor skin conditions and other issues that do not require hospital visits. These procedures are performed by specially trained GPs and include the removal of skin tags, cysts, warts, and small lumps, as well as the treatment of ingrown toenails and joint injections for conditions like arthritis. Procedures are carried out under local anaesthetic, ensuring minimal discomfort and a quick recovery.
Following an initial consultation with your GP, we’ll discuss your treatment options and schedule your procedure. These clinics offer an accessible, safe, and convenient way to address minor health issues close to home. Aftercare advice will be provided to ensure you heal properly, and any follow-up appointments can be arranged as needed.
If you think you might benefit from minor surgery, please speak with a doctor for an assessment.
NHS Health Checks
The NHS Health Check is a free health assessment offered to adults aged 40-74 without pre-existing conditions. This check helps identify early risk factors for conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease, and dementia. During your appointment, we will measure your blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and BMI, and discuss lifestyle factors such as diet, smoking, and exercise. Based on your results, we’ll offer tailored advice to help you reduce your risk and improve your health. It’s a proactive way to stay healthy and catch potential problems early.
Appointments are quick and easy, and the results can help you make informed decisions about your health for the future. Even if you feel fine, these checks are an important preventative measure that can offer peace of mind and guide you towards a healthier lifestyle.
For more information or to book your NHS Health Check, please contact the surgery.
Contraceptive Services
We offer a full range of contraceptive options to help manage your reproductive health. These include:
Oral Contraceptives: Combined and progestogen-only pills.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs): Implants, injections, IUDs, and IUS.
Emergency Contraception: Morning-after pill or a copper IUD.
Barrier Methods: Condoms and diaphragms.
Contraceptive advice: Consultations to help you choose the best method.
All services are confidential, and we are happy to discuss options during regular appointments. For long-acting methods like implants and IUD/IUS fittings, please contact reception to arrange a specific appointment with a trained clinician.
Child Health and Baby Clinic
We offer a dedicated child health and baby clinic that provides routine developmental checks and vaccinations for children up to age 5. The clinic runs every Tuesday afternoon from 1pm to 3pm, attended by Dr Ganguli or Dr Southall, alongside a Practice Nurse.
Please note, this service is not for ill babies—if your baby is unwell, please schedule an appointment with the doctor for appropriate care.
This schedule may change, so always check with the NHS or one of our clinical team for the latest guidance.
Postnatal Clinic
We offer comprehensive postnatal checks to support the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby. These checks ensure:
Physical recovery after birth (e.g., healing and uterus health)
Monitoring for postnatal depression
Breastfeeding support and guidance
Discussion of family planning and contraception
Growth and health checks for your baby
Postnatal checks offer the opportunity to raise any concerns and ensure a smooth recovery after childbirth. Regular follow-ups provide peace of mind and ongoing support during this important period.
