Winter Patient Newsletter 2025

Welcome to our Winter Newsletter Edition!

As we head into the colder months, we’re pleased to share some important updates and seasonal health information with you. This edition includes reminders about flu vaccinations and reducing did-not-attend (DNA) appointments, guidance on keeping track of your blood pressure, and support available during National Grief Awareness Week. Don’t forget to stay connected by following our social media pages for more updates, health advice, and practice news.

Did-Not-Attends (DNAs)

October saw a high number of missed appointments with flu clinic season in full swing this has resulted in significant lost clinical time. In October GPs had a total of 37 unfulfilled appointments (9.4 hrs) and the Nursing Team had a total of 241 appointments (36.4 hrs). The first two weeks of November are showing improvement, but DNAs remain a concern, as we are committed to providing better access and care for all our patients.

Please remember to cancel if you are unable to attend. Every appointment matters and will help us to support our patients more effectively.

A Message from the Burton Latimer Medical Centre Patient Participation Group

Your local Patient Participation Group (PPG) is a voice in helping Burton Latimer Medical Centre form meaningful policies which ultimately benefit the community.

The PPG is made up of patients and practice staff who share a drive to promote good health and encourage strong communication between patients and the medical centre. As a link between the surgery and its patients, the PPG aims to facilitate services offered by the surgery and to help implement policies which have been influenced by patients’ points of view. The PPG can also provide support with any issues that may be a cause for concern within the community, helping the practice further develop the services it offers.

The PPG currently have plans to improve the way patients are able to offer their constructive feedback, make sure patients are better informed of changes going on within the practice and support with healthcare campaigns. The group is also working to carry out a meaningful Patient Survey in the new year.

PPG membership is completely voluntary and if you would like to be involved in the active participation of improving the services provided at the practice, please leave your details with reception and one of the members will contact you.

More information about the PPG

Social Media

Stay connected with Burton Latimer Medical Centre by following us on Facebook and Instagram! Our social media pages are the quickest way to keep up to date with important practice news, health advice, seasonal reminders, and community updates.

By following us, you’ll always be the first to know about any changes to services, upcoming clinics, and useful resources to support your wellbeing.

Flu Vaccinations – Protect Yourself This Winter!

This year’s flu season has started early and is already much more severe than usual, with hospital cases over 50% higher than last year.

NHS leaders warn numbers are still rising, putting significant pressure on services. Getting your flu jab is the best way to protect yourself and help reduce hospital admissions.

If you’re eligible, please book your flu vaccination at the practice. Your vaccination helps protect you and your local community.

Blood Pressure Checks

It is recommended that Adults aged 40 and over should have their blood pressure checked at least once every five years, or annually if they have risk factors like a family history, obesity, or diabetes. If you are invited to check your blood pressure, we’d like to remind you to hand your readings in as soon as possible.

 Key reasons to have your blood pressure checked include:

• Early Detection of High Blood Pressure: This is the primary reason, as high blood pressure is often called the "silent killer" because most people feel fine and are unaware they have it until it's too late.
• Prevention of Serious Complications: If left untreated, high blood pressure puts extra strain on your arteries and organs, which can lead to:
  • Heart attacks and heart failure
  • Strokes
  • Kidney disease and kidney failure
  • Vision loss
  • Vascular dementia and cognitive decline
  • Aneurysms
• Monitoring Existing Conditions/Treatments: Regular checks ensure that lifestyle changes or prescribed medications (e.g., for high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease) are effectively managing your blood pressure and reducing your risk of complications.
• Managing Risk Factors: Knowing your numbers helps you and your doctor make informed decisions about lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, weight management, smoking cessation) to prevent the onset or progression of high blood pressure.

National grief Awareness Week

National Grief Awareness Week reminds us that everyone experiences loss differently, and no one should face grief alone. Whether your loss is recent or long ago, support is available.

At the surgery, our team is here to listen and help signpost you to appropriate services. We can refer patients to local bereavement counselling, community support groups, and mental health services where needed.

National charities such as The Good Grief Trust and Macmillan Cancer Support also offer free helplines, online resources, and one-to-one support for adults, children, and families.

Learn more about National Grief Awareness Week

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates and information about our clinics @burtonlatimermedicalcentre

Published: Dec 17, 2025