Latest Community News from the NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group:
Corona virus Testing:
There has been a lot about Corona virus testing in the media recently. Testing is still available, but you should only book if you have Corona virus symptoms. That’s any one of: a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste. The symptoms apply to adults and children. If you have other symptoms – such as a runny nose or a sore throat – please treat these as you would have before the pandemic.
If you have Corona virus symptoms, tests can be booked at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119. If you are only offered options outside Kent and Medway it is best to wait and try again later. New slots get released throughout the day.
Please do not call 111 to book a test and do not go to a hospital or other health service to try to get tested. If you have Coronavirus symptoms it is very important that you and other members of your household stay at home.
If you are attending hospital for a planned operation, your hospital will be in touch to arrange a test shortly before your procedure.
Kent County Council Coronavirus Service Update:
Kent County Council are able to provide short term assistance to households facing financial hardship as a direct result of the Coronavirus pandemic.
If you or someone you know has suffered financially from Coronavirus, then Kent County Council may be eligible to apply for support with:
- Supermarket vouchers;
- Pre-paid energy and clothing vouchers for school uniform (non-branded);
- Household items required to meet a basic need if there are no other means of assistance available;
For details on how to apply, click to visit the KCC website.
Kent and Medway Cancer Prehab Programme:
A short video has been made introducing a cancer prehab service. This service is aimed at preparing patients for treatments that they have following a diagnosis of cancer. For patients who are as well-prepared physically and emotionally as they can be before treatments or surgery, recovery times can be reduced and benefits continue into longer term recovery and living beyond cancer.
How to get your Flu vaccine:
With Autumn approaching, it is important to to get vaccinated against flu.
The flu vaccine is given to people who: are 65 and over (born on or before 31 March 1956)
have certain health conditions. People who:
- are pregnant;
- are in a long-stay residential care;
- receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick;
- live with someone who’s at high risk from coronavirus (on the NHS shielded patient list);
- frontline health or social care workers;
- New guidance says that if you’re aged 50 to 64, and have a health condition that means you’re more at risk from flu, you should get your flu vaccine as soon as possible.
Other 50 to 64-year-olds should be contacted about a flu vaccine later in the year.
For more information visit the NHS website.
Digital Volunteers Needed:
Medway NHS Foundation Trust are looking for people to share views on improving the way they use digital technology to deliver services.
Modern technology has become part of everyday life, with increased virtual outpatient appointments and Electronic Patient Records in future. The Trust are seeking views to help co-design various services as part of a Digital Strategy.
Volunteers are required to attend virtual meetings to share ideas and feedback. Whether you are a proficient user of technology or less experienced, they encourage anyone who has an interest to take part, as participation will ensure that the Trust’s digital plans are inclusive and well-considered.
If you are interested please email this address met-tr.members-medway@nhs.net