COVID VACCINATION PROGRAM
We are working with other local practices within our Primary Care Network to deliver COVID-19 Vaccinations & Boosters. This means when you are offered an appointment for the vaccine you may be asked to go to another site to have this done.
When you are invited for a booster vaccination will depend on when you had your second vaccination and our vaccination deliveries. Boosters can only be given 6 months after your second vaccination.
Please do not contact the surgery regarding boosters. When you are eligible for one, and we have enough stock, we will contact you.
When you become eligible, you may also be able to book your vaccine and choose another local service through the national booking service at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination or by phoning 119.
It is very important that when you are invited, you attend the appointment for the Booster vaccine.
If you would like to know more about the vaccine, please click the links for information about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Thank you for your understanding.
What Should I Do If I develop Symptoms or are asked to self Isolate through Track and Trace?
- You should self-isolate as soon as you develop symptoms and book a test. You must continue to self-isolate until you receive a negative test
- If you have been asked to self-isolate through NHS Test and Trace you must complete the period of self-isolating even if you don’t develop symptoms.
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Is there help available if I am self isolating?
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Patients Requesting a COVID Test
Our GP practices in Dorset are experiencing a large amount of calls re booking COVID-19 tests.
Unfortunately, our surgeries can not help as they only have access to the national portal that residents also have. NHS Test and Trace is working and the capacity is the highest it has ever been but there has been a significant demand for tests including some from people who do not have symptoms and are not otherwise eligible.
New booking slots and home testing kits are made available daily for those who need them. Please only book a test if you have Coronavirus symptoms or you have been asked to get a test. If you have no symptoms and are not eligible to get a test you can continue to protect yourself if you wash your hands, wear a face covering and follow social distancing rules.
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Mental Health
The current COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation is particularly difficult for people who are experiencing mental ill health and emotional distress. The situation is unprecedented and will impact the way that we run our Access Mental Health services.
To ensure the safety of our staff and the public, the Retreat drop-in services in Bournemouth and Dorchester are closed for the foreseeable future. We have also closed our Community Front Rooms, but alternative arrangements are being put in place.
If you require urgent mental health support, please call the 24/7 Connections phone line (0300 123 5440) in the first instance and you will be signposted to the right service for the support you need.
You can also visit https://www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/coronavirus-1/mental-healthwellbeing-advice
Below is a list of resources you may also find useful:
Resources for Mental Health
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Face Masks
The wearing of face masks is now required in shops and on public transport. We do understand that some people cannot wear them but we are unable to provide an exemption letter. However, patients can obtain an exemption cards or badges which can be downloaded from the following Government website.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own
For those with respiratory problems, there is an exemption card available to download from Asthma UK or British Lung Foundation. So, you can refer them to Asthma UK/British Lung Foundation and search under 'mask'.
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Supporting your recovery after COVID-19