Early Closure for Training
Headcorn Surgery will be closed from 1pm on 1st February 2024 for Protected Learning Time (PLT). We will open again from 8am on 2nd February.
What is Protected Learning Time?
Protected Learning Time is an opportunity for staff to learn about new clinical developments, updates to national guidance, and best practice whilst also sharing their own experience and knowledge with their peers. We do understand that an afternoon closure can be an inconvenience to some patients, but please remember this protected time is invaluable for busy GP surgeries. It gives all staff, clinical and non-clinical, time to undertake training which cannot be completed during normal surgery hours.
Can I use the Contact Us Online triage form during PLT afternoons?
During PLT afternoons, our Contact Us Online triage form will not be available. You will not be able to fill out the form nor will we be able to respond to any queries.
Who do I contact when you are closed?
If you need medical help while we are closed, please call NHS 111 or go online: 111.nhs.uk. The NHS 111 team has trained advisers, nurses and doctors available at all times to help you over the phone and advise you where to go if you need to see someone.
You can also visit your nearest Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC). An urgent treatment centre is not the same as A&E. Urgent treatment centres are equipped to diagnose and deal with many of the most common ailments people attend emergency departments for, including sprains, minor burns, and minor illness. UTCs are available across Kent and Medway, open every day throughout the year. These centres are well-equipped to diagnose and manage numerous common ailments that often prompt visits to A&E. Operating for a minimum of 12 hours daily, typically from 8 am to 8 pm, UTCs provide accessible healthcare services.
You can visit a centre without an appointment or call 111 to book an appointment. You can download the WaitLess App (links available on our website) to view the location of your nearest UTC as well as expected wait times.
The NHS in Kent and Medway is urging individuals to consider their health needs carefully and make informed decisions by utilizing NHS 111 via phone or online, as well as visiting www.StopThinkChoose.co.uk.
Stop Think Choose assists patients in making thoughtful decisions about their healthcare options by providing information on various resources, such as pharmacies, urgent treatment centres (UTCs), and minor injury units (MIUs) in Kent and Medway.
The majority of minor illnesses typically improve without requiring a doctor’s visit and can be managed effectively at home. Contributing to relieving the strain on the NHS involves ensuring your medicine cabinet is equipped with essential items like paracetamol, ibuprofen, cold remedies, indigestion treatments, and antihistamines. Additionally, it’s important to order repeat prescriptions promptly to avoid running out of medication.
Pharmacies provide free advice on a range of health concerns without requiring an appointment. With over 300 pharmacies throughout the county, many of which operate extended hours into the evenings and weekends, they offer extensive health support. For common ailments like coughs and colds, pharmacies should be your initial point of contact.