Practice News

World Stroke Day

World Stroke Day, 29th October

Every day in the UK, 240 people have a stroke. You can reduce your risk by cutting out smoking, limiting alcohol intake, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and getting regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and blood pressure. https://www.stroke.org.uk/world-stroke-day

One in four people will have a stroke in their lifetime; do you know the warning signs? Every second counts. A stroke can happen to anyone, at any age – but quick action saves lives.

F – Face drooping
A – Arm weakness
S – Speech difficulty
T – Time to call 999

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stroke/causes/

World Osteoporosis Day

World Osteoporosis Day, 20th October

Osteoporosis affects over 500 million people worldwide yet it remains severely underdiagnosed and undertreated – especially among those who have already sustained fragility fractures. Now is the time to ‘Take Action on Bones’. Look out for the signs, and if you’re concerned, do ask your doctor. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoporosis/

If you have osteoporosis, treatments can include medication to strengthen your bones. You can also help to manage your condition with lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, including weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening activities, along with a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D or supplements, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoporosis/treatment/

Infection Prevention Week

Infection Prevention Week , 19th - 25th October

Infection Prevention Week is a week dedicated to raising awareness about how simple actions can prevent the spread of infections and protect the most vulnerable in our communities. Infections can spread quickly, but many are preventable. Whether it’s through proper hand hygiene, vaccinations or knowing when to seek medical advice, we all play a role in keeping our community safe.
https://www.esht.nhs.uk/service/infection-prevention-and-control/

The theme this year of Infection Prevention Week is is ‘Never a Nuisance’. If you’re concerned about any aspects of hygiene, at home or when you’re out, never be afraid to speak out to protect you and your family.
https://lincolnshire.icb.nhs.uk/infection-prevention/

World Menopause Day

World Menopause Day, 18th October

World Menopause Day is here. We’re raising awareness of the menopause and its associated health issues as well as the support available to improve wellbeing. Focusing this year on ‘Lifestyle Medicine’, we’re considering how nutrition, exercise, sleep and managing stress can help manage perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/things-you-can-do/

Menopause can be incredibly challenging, and it’s often misunderstood or overlooked. Symptoms can include hot flushes, brain fog, mood changes, sleep disruption and anxiety which can significantly impact on daily life, work and relationships. Support, a healthy lifestyle and options of medication can help, but for many there are still unpredictable impacts. If you’re concerned or need additional support, please do contact your healthcare practitioner,

(If you have a menopause nurse or group, highlight that here.) https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/womens-health/later-years-around-50-years-and-over/menopause-and-post-menopause-health/treating-menopause-symptoms/

National Adoption Week

National Adoption Week, 16th - 22nd October

During National Adoption Week, we’re celebrating every kind of adoption journey – because every family is different. We’re also celebrating the people who make those journeys possible, from birth families and social workers to adoptive parents and adopted individuals themselves. https://www.youcanadopt.co.uk/

There’s an urgent need for adopters in the UK, with children all over searching for the loving home that will change their lives. There are many myths around adoption but provided you can offer a safe, secure home, you should be eligible to adopt. Start the journey to a make a difference to a child’s life today. https://www.youcanadopt.co.uk/ #YouCanAdopt

OCD Awareness Week

OCD Awareness Week, 12th - 18th October

OCD Awareness Week aims to break the stigma around Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. This disorder affects 1 in 50 people in the UK and can become all-encompassing, causing huge stress to sufferers and their families and friends. With the right support, OCD can be managed. If you’re worried, reach out to a healthcare professional. https://ocdaction.org.uk/

Baby Loss Awareness Week

Baby Loss Awareness Week, 9th - 15th October

*Trigger warning – baby loss*

Join a #WaveOfLight on 15th October by lighting a candle at 7pm and leaving it burning for at least one hour to remember all the babies who have died too soon. The global ‘Wave of Light’ is held in memory of all the babies who lit up our lives for such a short time.

For anyone who’s been touched by baby loss, a safe and supportive space to share their experiences and feel they’re not alone is so important. You can find support here: https://babyloss-awareness.org/support/

Black History Month

Black History Month

The theme for this year's Black History Month is "Standing Firm in Power and Pride". Black people have consistently exercised courage and vision throughout history and this power continues into the present, even when facing resistance. Unity is strength, this month and every month.https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/

(Resource pack https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/article/section/news/black-history-month-resource-pack-2025/)

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Anyone can get breast cancer, so remember to regularly touch, look and check. Get to know your normal by checking your breasts regularly. Touch your breasts. Look for changes. Check anything new or unusual with a GP. https://breastcancernow.org/about-breast-cancer/awareness/signs-and-symptoms-of-breast-cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, but early detection can improve outcomes so let’s share awareness and know the signs. https://breastcancernow.org/get-involved/breast-cancer-awareness-month

Breast cancer can develop in men, but this is rare with less than one in 100 (less than 1%) of breast cancer cases in the UK being in males. If you have any of the symptoms you'll find on the link, it’s important to go to your GP straight away. Finding a cancer early gives the best chance of successful treatment.https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/types/male-breast-cancer

National Cholesterol Month

National Cholesterol Month

Be the boss of your own cholesterol! Did you know that one in two adults in the UK have high cholesterol? By making small, realistic changes – like eating heart-healthy foods, moving more and checking in with your GP – you can take real steps towards protecting your heart and overall wellbeing. Knowing your cholesterol numbers is a powerful first step.
#NCM25 #bethebossofyourcholesterol https://www.heartuk.org.uk/cholesterol/overview

(Campaign resources here: https://www.heartuk.org.uk/national-cholesterol-month/NCM25)

(Add details on finding out your cholesterol locally.)

Confused about cholesterol? We need certain levels of fats in our blood but when it gets too high, it can lead to health problems in the future. By understanding your cholesterol and other blood fat (lipid) levels, you can take the steps you need to take to a healthier life. Watch this short video to find out more: https://www.heartuk.org.uk/cholesterol/animation
#NCM25 #bethebossofyourcholesterol

ADHD Awareness Month

ADHD Awareness Month

This year, we’re talking about the ‘Many faces of ADHD’. Myths about ADHD are harmful and can perpetuate stigma and pain, so during ADHD Awareness Month, it’s the ideal time to share the facts. https://www.adhdawarenessmonth.org/myths-and-facts-about-adhd/

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions, affecting people of all ages. Yet despite how common it is, ADHD is still widely misunderstood.

ADHD affects focus, emotional regulation, memory, motivation, time management and more. It shows up differently in everyone across age groups and genders. With better understanding comes better support. https://www.adhdawarenessmonth.org/

Stoptober

Stoptober

Commit to quitting for 28 days this Stoptober. If you can stop smoking for this period, it significantly increases your chances of quitting permanently.

Your long-term risks of many health conditions are reduced if you quit smoking and you’ll feel the benefits within a few short days, from improved sense of smell and taste to more energy and breathing more easily. Why not give it a try? https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

It’s time to shine! Let’s stop smoking together this October. Support from friends, family and health professionals can help you quit smoking and stick with it! Whether it’s your first time or you’re trying again, this Stoptober is your chance to quit for good.

(Campaign resources here: https://campaignresources.dhsc.gov.uk/campaigns/stoptober-2025/)

(Detail any offerings you have in practice/locally.)

Go Sober for October

Go Sober for October

Become a Soberhero in October! While you might not get to wear a cape, you may benefit from a clearer head, weight loss and better sleep. Give it a try? https://www.gosober.org.uk/

Are you going sober this October? Giving up alcohol for even a few days can be beneficial to your health in long term. This clever alcohol calculator will show you how much you can save financially: https://www.gosober.org.uk/alcohol-calculator

Peri/Menopause and emotional wellbeing

Hertfordshire Talking Therapies offers psychological help and employment support for people experiencing a wide range of common emotional difficulties. It is part of the NHS Talking Therapies, for anxiety and depression programme.

How can we support:
Peri/Menopause is a life transition that all people who have or have had menstrual cycles go through. It is characterised by hormonal fluctuations and decreasing levels of the hormones oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
Many people find these changes overwhelming and difficult to navigate. It can be hard to talk about how you are feeling and ask for help, but you do not have to struggle alone; there is support available.

More information can be found here Peri menopause / Menopause leaflet

Right to Choose: ASD & ADHD Assessment Pathways

What is Right to Choose?
In England, under the NHS, you now have a legal right to choose your mental healthcare provider, including for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessments. This service, offered through the NHS, is free of charge.

Introduction to Right to Choose Referrals
Did you know that NHS patients have the legal right to select their mental healthcare provider? This important right allows you to explore alternative providers if the waiting time for an ADHD or ASD assessment is too long. Right to Choose, introduced in 2018, is still a relatively new system, and many patients may not be aware of these options.

Who Can Offer Right to Choose Assessments?
Several clinics across the UK offer Right to Choose ADHD and/or ASD assessments. To be eligible to provide this service, clinics must also offer the same service to the NHS in England. Private-only clinics are not eligible. Checking a provider’s website is a good way to determine if they offer the services you need.

Which Providers Offer Right to Choose Assessments?
The list of clinics offering Right to Choose assessments is constantly evolving. Currently, several clinics are available, but there may be other providers worth researching as well.

Important Resources

• ADHD & Right to Choose referrals: Visit the ADHD website for more information.
• ASD & Right to Choose referrals: Visit the National Autistic Society website for helpful details.

Things to Consider About Right to Choose
It’s important to note that many clinics offering these assessments can diagnose ADHD or ASD but may not provide medication titration. This means you might need a local NHS referral if medication is required to manage symptoms.

When Can You Not Use Right to Choose?
There are certain restrictions on eligibility for Right to Choose referrals. You are not eligible if:

• You require urgent or emergency treatment.
• You are already receiving care for the condition you are seeking an assessment for.
• The provider you choose cannot provide appropriate care for your condition.
• You are a prisoner or in specific secure settings such as a secure hospital or under the Mental Health Act.
• You are a serving member of the armed forces.

How to Request a Right to Choose Referral from Your GP
Have an open conversation with your GP about your concerns regarding ADHD or ASD. Your GP may suggest a referral for an official assessment. With extensive waiting times for ADHD and ASD assessments in Hertfordshire, Right to Choose can offer faster alternatives, reducing the long wait for diagnosis and support.

What Happens After Choosing a Clinic?
Once you select a clinic, either you or your family (if the patient is a child) will need to research and decide which provider to choose. Your GP cannot advise on which clinic to select. After making your choice, email or send an admin E-consult with your selection and any relevant forms to ensure an efficient referral process. The NHS standard contract (section 7.9) dictates the use of the e-RS referral system but does not require the use of a form to accompany such a referral. Your GP will make the referral by letter but will not complete forms created by the providers.

How Much Quicker Will Right to Choose Be?
The speed of the assessment depends on your chosen clinic and whether they offer medication titration. Generally, Right to Choose assessments can take anywhere from 12 weeks to 12 months—much quicker than the local NHS alternatives, which have waiting times of up to 7 years. If a clinic offers a diagnosis but not medication titration, you may need an additional referral for post-diagnostic support,which can take up to 24 months locally. Your GP will not initiate specialist medication and will only prescribe once the patient is stable on a dose and if the provider can meet the same standard for shared care as local NHS services.

Why Choose Right to Choose If Medication May Not Be Easily Accessible?
Many patients find that a diagnosis is sufficient for obtaining additional support from schools or employers, or they may not need medication at all for managing their conditions.

Further Questions?
If you have additional questions, a simple call to your surgery may provide answers. For further research, here are some helpful resources:

Information on ADHD

• AHD UKD: A charity offering free advice and information on ADHD and Right to Choose referrals
• ADHD Foundation: The UK’s leading neurodiversity charity, offering services for those who live with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, DCD, Dyscalculia, OCD, Tourette’s Syndrome and more
• NHS Website
• Mind: ADHD and mental health

Information on ASD

• National Autistic Society: offer support and advise for autistic people in the UK and their families
• Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan
• NHS Website
• Mind: Autism and mental health

Supporting Dads

Calling all dads in Hertfordshire!

Discover a wealth of resources and support tailored just for you at the Families First Support for Dads webpage. Whether you're looking for parenting tips, local activities, or advice, we've got you covered. What you'll find:-

- Parenting advice and tips

- Local events and activities

- Support services and resources

- Community connections

Visit our page and be the best dad you can be!

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/familiesfirstdads

Healthy Herts

Their aim is to promote cardiovascular health and well-being throughout the local community in Hertfordshire, England.

Whether you're managing cardiovascular conditions, concerned about your heart health, or caring for a family member, they're here to provide support.

Explore the website for valuable resources, including links to support organisations, frequently asked questions, and a form where you can express interest in participating in their events.

Collaborating closely with the practice team, they're committed to refining the referral process, ensuring tailored support through local charities and social prescribers. For more information or to get involved, please reach out to the practice directly or complete their contact form.

PCN Training Closures

• Thursday 5th September
• Tuesday 8th October 
• Wednesday 6th November

Blood Tests

A notice from West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

You now need to book an appointment for a blood test

From December 1st you can register with the online system to book appointments from December 14th