Medical Centre Update

Update from Dr Mark Howcutt, Haddenham Medical Centre
May 2022

We are continuing to have a very challenging time in the practice. We currently have three of our seven receptionists off sick including with COVID. We are very grateful to other members of the team who have stepped up, working above and beyond, and in unfamiliar areas to support the work in reception.

We have had two of our regular doctors off sick throughout April and one remains off work. There is a national shortage of GPs and locum GPs are very difficult to find now. Therefore, it has not always been able to find additional doctors.

We are grateful to our doctors who have worked extra shifts and cancelled leave to help cover gaps.

We are trying to signpost people to other professionals who can help, such as our practice pharmacists and physiotherapists. We have also been able to use some excellent Advanced Nurse Practitioners. Unfortunately, we are having some patients refuse to speak with these professionals even when their problem could be easily managed by them. This is causing extra pressure on the doctors' appointments.

Please take advantage of all the options for help that exist.

This is a challenging time for the NHS. At Haddenham, we are continuing to work as hard as we can to manage these difficulties, but it cannot be 'service as usual'.

We are grateful for your continued support and patience. We will try to keep our patients updated through our website, Facebook page, Patient Participation Group, and our excellent local community website.