Other Information
Services Provided
We aim to provide a full range of general medical services, including home visits for those too ill to attend the surgery, contraceptive advice, maternity services (including home deliveries for suitable cases), child health surveillance, minor surgery and nursing services including nurse-led clinics. The practice is registered for VAT, affecting a limited number of services. VAT will therefore be charged on private prescriptions (not NHS prescriptions), DNA testing, and signing passports and some licence applications.
Medical Examinations And Forms
All medical examinations for insurance, HGV/PSV licence etc, can be arranged through the receptionist. For all insurance claim forms, BUPA/PPP forms, passport applications, or similar forms, please allow 7 - 10 working days for these to be completed. These services are not covered by the NHS and a fee will be payable. A list of fees payable is available from reception.
Swaffham Community Hospital (Cottage Hospital)
The Cottage Hospital has 18 beds, which are managed by the doctors from the three GP practices in Swaffham, for immediate post-hospital discharge care, observation, investigation and palliative care. The Cottage Hospital also provides the following services: Physiotherapy, X-ray, Ultrasound Scans, Phlebotomy, Speech Therapy, Chiropody and Community Dentistry. Appointments for these services can be booked through the surgery's reception, following referral by a doctor.
Mobile Phones
For the benefit of the staff and other patients in the surgery please ensure mobile phones are turned off when you come in to the surgery. Mobile phones may also affect the use of vital equipment used in the surgery.
NHS Norfolk
NHS Norfolk (the PCT) manages and oversees the National Health Service locally. NHS Norfolk is based in Norwich (Tel: 01603 257000) and in King's Lynn (Tel: 01553 816200). A leaflet on who they are, what they do and how you can get involved is available on request.
Transport For Hospital Appointments
Hospital transport can be arranged for your initial appointment only and only in cases of medical need. You may arrange this by ringing the transport co-ordinator at Queen Elizabeth Hospital on 0845 602 9205. Transport for subsequent appointments will be arranged by the hospital. Full details of this booking service are available in the surgery.
Other Options For Health Care
Pharmacy
Ask your local pharmacist for advice about common illnesses.
NHS Direct
If you are not sure whether you need a doctor, or need advice or information about any health problem, call NHS Direct for 24 hour advice on 0845 4647.
Walk-In Centre
You can go to the NHS Walk In Centre in Norwich, now located in the Timber Hill Health Centre, Castle Mall ( Level 4, St John's Row). There is no need for an appointment. The walk In Centre is open 7-00am to 9-0pm every day, including Sundays. Telephone: 03000 300 333.
Dentists
Outside normal working hours contact your own dentist and there will be a message explaining what to do. If you have a dental problem over the weekend/bank holiday and you are not registered with a dentist, ring 0845 600 3246.