What are physician associates? Find out about their training and what kind of care they can provide. Have you heard of physician associates? Since 2003, they've been caring for NHS patients. Physician associates can check your health, request tests to help find out what's wrong, and work with doctors to plan your treatment.  With the NHS planning to employ more physician associates, find out what care they can offer you and how their role differs from that of doctors.  What are physician associates?   What do physician associates do? Physician associates are healthcare professionals who work under the supervision of a senior doctor, such as a hospital consultant or a GP.  They are trained to perform various clinical duties, such as taking medical histories, conducting physical examinations and developing and managing treatment plans.  Since 2003, the number of physician associates working in the NHS has grown to 3,000, and there are plans to employ 10,000 by 2036.   What kind of education and training do physician associates receive?   Physician associates complete a three-year undergraduate degree, usually in a health, biomedical science, or life-sciences subject, followed by a two-year postgraduate qualification. The postgraduate training for physician associates covers some of the same topics as a medical degree but is less in-depth.  Like medical training, physician associate training involves supervised practice with patients.  When would I see a physician associate?   If your care needs are not complex or you need to see someone quickly, your GP practice might offer an appointment with a physician associate.  Before your appointment, your practice should tell you which healthcare professional you will see.  You may also see a physician associate in a hospital.  Physician associates work in various specialities such as emergency medicine, acute medicine, geriatrics, psychiatry, general surgery, respiratory medicine, trauma and orthopaedics, cardiology, and general internal medicine.   They review patients’ medical histories, perform examinations, and request diagnostic tests.  How are physician associates different from doctors?   Despite having 'physician' in their title, physician associates are not doctors.  Physician associates:  Have around two years of training compared to the ten years of an average fully qualified GP.   Must be supervised by a senior doctor.  Are not currently allowed to prescribe medication or request ionising radiation, such as a chest X-ray or a CT scan.  How do I know if I'm seeing a physician associate?   If you are unsure who is providing your care, you should ask them.  All healthcare professionals are advised to introduce themselves to patients and explain who is responsible for their care and the roles of other team members.  Guidance for physician associates says when you first meet them, they should:   Offer you the opportunity to ask about their role;  Explain that they are not a doctor and give enough time to explain their job, including their training and qualifications; and   Tell you that they work under the supervision of a named senior doctor.  Can I choose which professional I see?   You can choose which GP practice you register with and ask to see a particular doctor, nurse, or healthcare professional at the practice.   Your practice should make every effort to meet your preference, although there may be occasions when this is not possible. For example, a particular doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional may be on leave or at full capacity with no available appointments.  Why are more physician associates being recruited?   The NHS plans to recruit and train more doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, and other professionals, which includes physician associates.  Healthcare in the twenty-first century is often delivered by multi-professional teams with different specialist skills and capabilities.   Having a physician associate on an NHS team can result in quicker access to care for some patients and help reduce the workload of other clinical professionals.   This may help free up time and resources for doctors, for example, to better support other patients.  Who checks they're practising safely and appropriately?   Currently, physician associates are not statutorily regulated. A senior doctor must supervise them to ensure they are working safely.  Physician associates must work under a dedicated medical supervisor which will be consultant, GP, or other senior medical personnel. The Faculty of Physician Associates maintains a voluntary register of all those who meet the required standards to practice. You can search this register online.  From December 2024, the General Medical Council will regulate physician associates, the organisation that ensures doctors are safe to practice.  What should I do if I am unhappy with my care or concerned about patient safety?    Talk to the staff at the place where you received healthcare treatment. Ask them how to raise a concern or make a complaint. You should be able to raise a concern by speaking to someone at the service, in writing, or by email.

The cost of living crisis has put many people under financial strain, and prescription costs are more than some can afford. Find out what help is out there to help you cover the cost of your medication. Most adults in England have to pay for their prescriptions. Right now, prescriptions cost £9.65 per item (though some items, like contraceptives, are free). Who can get a free NHS prescription? You have the right to free prescriptions if: You are 60 or over You are under 16 years old You are 16, 17 or 18 years old and in full-time education You are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months and have a valid  maternity exemption certificate You have a continuing physical disability that stops you going out without help from another person, and you have a valid  medical exemption certificate You hold a valid  war pension exemption certificate , and the prescription is for your disability You are an NHS inpatient You have a long-term health condition. People with certain medical conditions can get free NHS prescriptions by applying for a valid  medical exemption certificate  (MedEx) You are entitled to a free prescription if you or your partner receive the following benefits: Income support Income-based job seekers allowance Income-related employment and support allowance Pension credit guarantee credit Universal credit, and you meet the criteria You are also entitled to free prescriptions if you are under 20 and a dependent of someone on these benefits. See if you are eligible for help The Government has a five-minute online survey that will let you know if you can get free NHS prescriptions, dental treatment and eye tests. Do you have a low income? If you are on a low income, you may be able to receive financial help towards your prescription. The NHS have a low income scheme to help people. The scheme covers: Prescription costs Dental costs Eye care costs Healthcare travel costs Wigs and fabric support You can apply for the scheme if your savings, investments or property (not including where you live) stay within the capital limit. If you live in a care home, the capital limit is £23,250. For everyone else, it is £16,000. Visit the NHS website to find out how to apply for the low income scheme and claim money back that you have already paid.  Prescription prepayment certificates You can save money through a Prescription prepayment certificate (PPC). This certificate lets you pay a fee upfront to cover all your NHS prescriptions, including dental, no matter how many you need. Costs for a prepayment certificate vary depending on the duration of the certificate: Three months cost £31.25 and will save you money if you get more than three prescriptions in three months. Twelve months cost £111.60 and will save you money if you get more than eleven prescriptions yearly.  If you're prescribed Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), you are entitled to an  HRT PPC . The certificate costs £19.30, lasts 12 months, and will save you money if you get more than two prescriptions yearly.  Find out more about the HRT PPC and how to apply . You'll need an address to apply for a PPC or to the Low-Income Scheme (LIS). However, you can use a ‘care of’ or forwarding address if you don’t have a fixed address. More information and advice For more information and support paying for your prescriptions, check out the following resources: This  leaflet for patients  provides information on services that can help you with health costs NHS help with costs helpline – 0300 330 1343 NHS website on help with costs Citizen's advice guidance on health costs Macmillan information for those living with cancer Age UK advice on free prescriptions for over 60s Carers UK guidance for carers

75% of children and young people who experience mental health problems aren't getting the help they need. Research from  Mind  found many children and young people don’t understand mental health. Those experiencing emotional distress or mental health issues tend to downplay their problems. And rather than reach out to a friend or trusted adult for support, they'll turn to anonymous services for advice and care. What can affect children and young people’s mental health? As children grow and their bodies and minds develop, they might struggle to change. Puberty can play a part in the emotional and mental wellbeing of children and young people. But external factors can also affect their mental and emotional health, such as:  Traumatic events  like an injury or loss of a loved one, particularly a parent. Changes  to routine, family life or social life can impact their emotional or mental wellbeing. What signs should you look out for?  There are all sorts of concerns young people may need support with. It's important to reach out and speak to someone if you experience: Sadness, low mood or depression Feelings of worry, anxiety, or low confidence Problems with eating or your relationship with food Anger and irritability Problems sleeping, sleeping more than usual, tiredness or insomnia Hearing voices or seeing things Thoughts about wanting to hurt yourself Complicated feelings after a traumatic event Distancing yourself from friends or family A lack of interest or loss of interest in hobbies For parents and carers, it's important to be aware of any changes in behaviour or mood so you can support your child to stay mentally healthy. You can find more information on what to look for and how to support your child on  NHS Every Mind Matters. When should you reach out for help? You should still  reach out for support  even if what's bothering you isn't listed. Mental health looks different for everyone. You don't need to be in crisis before you reach out for help. The sooner you speak to someone about what's bothering you, the sooner you can start feeling like yourself again. There are lots of ways you can access support:  The NHS has  a list of services  that provide mental health support for young people, and can help you  find your local mental health support services . Mental Health UK  can also help you  find local support for your mental health . Other options for support , like charities, offer a range of services, from crisis helplines to counselling. Read our information below on finding other support services. If you're in a crisis and need urgent help: If you don't feel you can keep yourself safe right now, seek immediate help by visiting your nearest  Accident and Emergency (A&E) department  or by calling 999. If you need urgent support but don't want to go to A&E: Call  Samaritans  on Freephone 116 123  – they're always open and are there to listen. Contact  SHOUT  by text at  85258 . Contact  YoungMinds Crisis Messenger . Contact  NHS 111 . If you need support but feel safe: Contact your GP surgery and ask for an  emergency appointment . Visit Mind's website for more ways to access  support in a crisis . Visit the  Mental Health Foundation  website for other ways to  get help  with your mental health. NHS support for children and young people There are NHS  Child and Young People's Mental Health Services  (CYPMHS) services around the UK. Young people and their parents and carers can get direct support through these services. What is CYPMHS (CAMHS)? Child and Young People's Mental Health Services  (CYPMHS), previously Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are NHS services that support children and young people's emotional, behavioural and mental health. How do I access CYPMHS? You'll normally need a referral from your GP. Some services accept referrals from schools, social workers, and youth offending teams. You must tell the person referring you as much as possible. This will help you access the proper care and support. If you're old enough, you can refer yourself. Who does CYPMHS support? How long CYPMHS can support you is often personal to the individual seeking care. They typically support children and young people 18 years old and younger. If you're older than 18,  Mind 's guide on  adult services  and our list of  other options for support  can help you get the right care. Other services that can support you Childline Childline is a free, private and confidential service here to help anyone under 19 in the UK with any issue they’re going through. You can talk to them about anything, whatever your worry, whenever you need help, anytime day or night. childline.org.uk 1-2-1 counsellor chat 0800 1111 Email Shout Shout is a free, nationwide, text-based, 24/7 service for people experiencing crisis. It’s a place to go if you’re anxious, worried, stressed, or struggling to cope and need help. giveusashout.org Text 85258 Young Minds Young Minds is a mental health charity for children and young people. They give advice and information about mental health conditions and support for both young people and parents and carers. youngminds.org.uk Text YM to 85258 Parents Helpline, 9.30am-4pm, Monday to Friday - 0808 802 5544 Mind Mind is a mental health charity that gives advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They have a section on their website on  CAMHS/CYPMHS  and can help you find support in your area. mind.org.uk Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm - 0300 123 3393 Text 86463 info@mind.org.uk The Mix The Mix is a free, confidential support service for young people under 25. They are here to help you on any challenge you’re facing – from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. themix.org.uk Other methods   are also available including one-to-one chat and counselling services Everyday, 4pm-11pm - 0808 808 4994 Email NHS The NHS website has further information on CYPMHS, including moving from CYPMHS to adult services, and other resources. NHS CYPMHS

The NHS wants to make it easier and safer for patients to get the right treatment when they need it, without waiting a long time to be seen in A&E. Find out what this means for you and your loved ones. How does NHS 111 work? If you have an  urgent but not life-threatening health problem , you can now contact NHS 111 to find out if you need to go to A&E. NHS 111 can book an appointment at your local A&E or emergency department. This time will be a rough guide for when you will get seen. This allows the NHS to better manage patient flow and overcrowding in the A&E. With the aim for people to get seen sooner.  Your NHS 111 advisor or clinician could also make you a direct appointment with a GP, Pharmacist or Urgent Treatment Centre. They can also give you the advice you need without using another service. What will this mean for you? If your condition is not life-threatening, NHS 111 may direct you to a more appropriate service or one that can see you sooner. You may also be asked to wait at home until the emergency department is ready to see you, avoiding a long wait in A&E for you and helping to prevent overcrowding. If you need an urgent face-to-face assessment or treatment, NHS 111 can arrange this immediately.  No one who turns up in A&E should be turned away or asked to call NHS 111. How do you use NHS 111? You, or someone on your behalf, can  contact NHS 111 either online or by phone  24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is free to use, including from a mobile phone. Call 111 NHS 111 online What should you do if you have a life-threatening emergency? If you or a loved one has a life-threatening emergency, you should  call 999  or go straight to your nearest emergency department. Examples of an emergency are: Loss of consciousness Acute confused state and fits that are not stopping Chest pain Breathing difficulties Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped Severe allergic reactions Severe burns or scalds Stroke If you have been asked to wait at home until your appointment by NHS 111 and your condition changes, call 111 again. If you have been asked to wait at home by NHS 111 and you become seriously ill, call an ambulance. Can I still walk into A&E? If you do not want to use NHS 111 first, you can still walk into A&E for treatment. Patients who need emergency treatment will be seen first. If your health condition is not urgent, you may need to wait elsewhere or be asked to return for a later appointment to help manage waiting times. A medical professional at A&E will assess you and may direct you to a different service if appropriate. If you do not want to be seen by another service, you can continue to wait in A&E. No one who turns up to A&E in person should be turned away and told to call NHS 111 instead. If this has happened to you or someone you know, tell us in our  short online survey  or contact us . Do you receive ongoing medical treatment from the hospital? If you have an ongoing medical problem which you manage by going straight to A&E when you're ill, It might be better for you to try and contact the hospital specialists who look after you before you go to A&E. Some patients with complicated medical problems need to be looked after in places other than A&E, particularly if you are vulnerable to infection. But, if you are extremely ill, go to your nearest emergency department or call an ambulance. What should you do if you require support for communication needs? You can tell the call handler that you need an interpreter. Call 18001 111 on a text phone or using the Next Generation Text (NGT) Lite app on your smartphone, tablet or computer. Use the NHS 111 British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter service if you’re hard of hearing or deaf and want to use the phone service. You could ask a loved one, friend or carer to make your communications needs known to the health professional so you can clearly communicate your health issues. How else can NHS 111 help me? NHS 111 helps people get the right physical and mental health advice and treatment when they urgently need it. A specialist health advisor will assess your health needs, give advice, refer you to the most appropriate care service or send an ambulance in case of an emergency. Depending on where you live or the services available in your area, NHS 111 can also be used to book same-day appointments at local pharmacists, GPs and Urgent Care Centres, so you can get the right type of treatment. If they cannot make you an appointment, they will direct you to the best service to meet your health needs. Nurses, GPs and paramedics play a large role within NHS 111 and may be able to give you the advice or treatment you need without accessing another service.

Together with NHS Somerset, we are shining a spotlight on patient and family engagement for safer care across Somerset for World Patient Safety Day on 17 September. Patients and families should be involved at every level of health and care to help NHS Somerset plan to make services better. In June 2023, NHS Somerset appointed two Patient Safety Partners (PSPs) to support Somerset’s journey to improve the way patients are involved to help keep others safe. The PSPs, who have a wealth of experience, are hosted by us, the county’s independent health and social care champion. The PSP’s will: have oversight of all patient and public feedback gathered by us, and use this to gain insight and report on issues relating to patient safety; become active members of NHS Somerset’s safety and quality committees to ensure the voice of patients is heard; and be involved in patient safety improvement projects within Somerset. To find out more about the role of PSPs, visit: NHS England » Framework for involving patients in patient safety “Patient and family engagement is one of NHS Somerset’s priorities in developing safer health and care systems in Somerset. Safe care depends on the full involvement of patients and families as users of health and care services at every level and requires a shift from care designed for patients to care designed with patients. We are pleased to be able to fund two Patient Safety Partner roles to help ensure the voices of patients in Somerset are heard.” Emma Savage, NHS Somerset Deputy Director of Quality and Improvement Our Somerset PSPs are passionate about their new roles using insight gathered from local people to help Somerset NHS deliver safe, quality healthcare. “Having recently retired from the NHS after almost 50 years’ service, I am privileged in being selected to undertake this role, that will ensure that patient safety is the golden thread which runs through all the processes and procedures that the healthcare services within Somerset provides. By working in partnership with patients, their families, carers and professionals to identify and assist in problem solving the issues of patient and staff  safety, ensuring that the provision of healthcare is safer within the complexities of today’s health service.” Glenys, Patient Safety Partner. “I look forward to representing the patient voice in discussions around the health and social care services in Somerset and to providing that necessary reminder that patient safety must underpin every decision made. I have worked in the fields of health and social care for almost 30 years and I live in Yeovil with my family.” Claire, Patient Safety Partner Share your views It’s easy to share your experience with us about patient safety or any aspect of health and social care, and this can remain anonymous. Freephone:  0800 999 1286 info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk

Each day 6,000 people become carers. Looking after a loved one can be physically and emotionally exhausting so it's vital that you get the support you need. Find out how you can make sure you look after yourself. Some people become carers overnight. When somebody has an accident or is taken ill, they can suddenly need support from those around them. For others, it can happen gradually, such as when parents cannot manage independently, or a partner's health deteriorates. Only some people realise that they have become a carer. The gradual development of a mental or physical health condition can see someone's needs build over time and their loved one slipping into the role of carer without acknowledging its impact on their lives. Looking after yourself: top tips Take time to be compassionate to yourself. Be honest with the person that you may not know what they are going through but that you care and want to help. Find your local carers support groups – they can be vital in giving you the support you need and helping you speak to people in similar situations. For help finding a support group, email  advice@carersuk.org  or call 0808 808 7777, Monday - Friday, 9am-6pm. Make the time to do things you enjoy, such as walking the dog, joining an evening class or meeting friends. Join the Carers UK online chats - Care for a cuppa. For more information on how to join the Zoom sessions and the dates, visit the  Carers UK website Acknowledge that you may not be able to ‘fix’ the person you are caring for but that you are there to help and support them. If you are struggling, talk to your GP and tell them how your caring role impacts your health. They will be able to offer confidential advice and support. Need more help?  There are lots of charities out there to offer advice and support to carers, including:  Carers UK Carers Trust

Do you struggle to speak to your doctor about your medical concerns? You’re not alone. Take a look at our top tips to make the most of your GP appointment. Most GP appointments are just 10 minutes long. That doesn't give you much time to explain your symptoms, get a diagnosis, discuss a treatment plan, and get your questions answered. To try and get the most out of your appointment, go prepared. Plan ahead what you need to tell the doctor, don’t try to talk about too many things, and always start with the most important issue. Things to consider Before your appointment: Write down details of your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse. Write down any important questions you want to ask. During your appointment: Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t understand something. Write things down or take a family member or friend to help you remember the details. Before you leave your appointment, make sure you understand what will happen next. Four key questions These questions can help you make the right decisions about your healthcare.  What are the benefits?  Make sure you understand the benefits to your health if you agree to the procedure/treatments.   What are the risks?  You should be fully informed about the effects of this decision, both short and long term. Take time to consider your care after your treatment and how you'll manage this.   Are there any alternatives?  Make sure you're aware of all the options, so you can decide if a different option better suits your healthcare needs.   What if I do nothing?  Remember that just because treatment is available, it doesn't mean it's right for you. Make sure you fully understand the impact on your health if you do nothing, and the effect of time on your condition.   What to ask your doctor If you'd like to know more about what questions you can ask your doctor to get the most out of your consultation, take a look at the comprehensive list developed by NHS Choices.  Easy Read information Easy Health have developed Easy Read leaflets to help you get through your appointment.  Going to the doctor Questions to ask when going to the doctor

In a post-pandemic world where the cost-of-living crisis is challenging for many of us, prioritising our mental health and wellbeing is necessary. One in four people in the UK suffers from a mental health condition. With everything going on in our daily lives, awareness of our mental health and how to care for ourselves or others is essential. Why is looking after your mental health important? We know how to care for our physical health and what to do when we're unwell or injured. So, we should take the same approach to mental health when we're not feeling quite ourselves. We can do a lot for our mental health and overall wellbeing. Knowing some of the symptoms of depression and anxiety is half the battle, and identifying them can help determine our next steps in deciding what care and support we need. It’s important that we should seek professional support where and when self-care hasn't been effective. What signs should we look out for? Depression and anxiety can present physically and psychologically. While mental health conditions are more common than you may think, not everyone will suffer the same symptoms or experience mental health issues in the same way. Here’s what to look out for: Persistent low mood. Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Significant weight gain or loss. Increased or decreased appetite with loss of interest in food. Changes in sleeping patterns, fatigue or low energy levels. Extreme feelings of worthlessness, guilt or worry. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions. Loss of interest in personal care, hygiene and general wellbeing. Suicidal thoughts. How can I take care of my mental health? Looking after our mental health all year round is vital. It’s normal to feel affected by changing seasons and weather, but it’s important to look after our mental health no matter the weather. Here are some ways you can lift your spirits throughout the year: Breathe.  Experiencing periods of depression and heightened anxiety often leaves us on edge and tense. We should pause and take several slow, deep breaths, allowing ourselves a moment of calm and a chance to reset.  Find time for yourself . Depression and anxiety can be isolating, so spending time alone can be the last thing we want to do. But it’s important that we try to do things that have made us happy before. Whether you take time to get back into a hobby that has fallen by the wayside or indulge in some self-care, take time for yourself.  Keep active.  Low moods and energy levels leave us wanting to stay in bed or curl up on a sofa, but exercise releases endorphins. You do not need to overexert yourself or spend hours exercising. If you can, something as simple as a short walk is all you need to kick-start your recovery.  Get outdoors.  Connecting with nature has been proven to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The Mental Health Foundation found that spending time in nature can bring consolation in times of stress, reduce feelings of social isolation and effectively protect our mental health.  Sleep well.  It can be hard to switch off when we're anxious or depressed, but sleep is the body's way of healing and recovering. Rest supports our mental and physical wellbeing. Consider creating a bedtime routine for yourself to encourage a good night's sleep, avoiding caffeine after three o'clock and screens up to an hour before bed.  Eat well.  When we experience periods of depression and anxiety, we should avoid recreational drugs and alcohol and cut back on ''unhealthy'' foods, swapping them instead for healthier, nutrient-dense foods that will provide the nutrients and vitamins our bodies need for healing and energy. Stay connected.  Make sure you keep in contact with friends and loved ones – even if this is via text or phone. Reaching out for extra support For some, self-care is an effective way of managing their mental health and overall wellbeing, but sometimes, we need extra support. There is no shame in asking for help. Should you need additional support to look after your mental health and wellbeing this winter, why not consider the following: Friends and family.  If you’re not sure where to begin, reaching out to friends and family is a great place to start. A problem shared is a problem halved. Workplace support.  Mental wellbeing in the workplace has become more of a priority, with many organisations offering mental health support services to their staff. If you don’t want to confide in a loved one because you feel guilty or embarrassed, using a workplace mental health support scheme could be the right first step. Your GP.  They may be able to offer you support and treatment. They can also refer you if appropriate or recommend local options. Mental health professionals.  You may be able to self-refer to the NHS in some areas. This means you don’t need to see your GP first. You can also access therapists through certain charities or privately. Charity helplines and support groups . See the websites listed below for some examples. While mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can leave us feeling estranged and isolated from friends and family, the reality is that our friends and family are a support network we can reach out to for help when we're not quite ourselves. Remember it's ok not to be ok and that you're not alone. Need more support? Take a look at these websites for extra support: Samaritans   Mental health - NHS ( www.nhs.uk ) 15 Symptoms Of Depression And Anxiety | BetterHelp Looking after your mental health | Mental Health Foundation Self-care for mental health problems - Mind

With more than thirty recognised symptoms of menopause and growing awareness of the impact on day-to-day life, it can help to know what to look out for and what support is available. Around 13 million women are currently perimenopausal or menopausal in the UK. Transgender, non-binary and intersex people can also experience menopause or similar symptoms. However, research shows many people don't know all the symptoms associated with menopause or perimenopause, what treatments are available or what support they can access.  What's the difference between perimenopause and menopause? Menopause is a natural part of the ageing process. Perimenopause, also known as menopausal transition, is the start of this change.  During this transition, your body's production of oestrogen and progesterone drops off, so you may notice a change in your periods. You may also experience some symptoms of menopause. Perimenopause often happens between the ages of 45 and 55.  Some people may go through this transition in their thirties, known as  early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency  (POI). Sometimes, medical conditions or treatments can cause early menopause.   You enter the menopause once you've gone twelve months without a period. What are the symptoms of perimenopause?  Some of the symptoms you may get:  Periods that are heavier or lighter than usual  Hot flashes, nausea, or dizzy spells  Vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex Needing to urinate more frequently What are the symptoms of menopause?  You will be in menopause after twelve months without a period. As well as symptoms you may have during perimenopause, you may also experience:  Changes to your mood and low self-esteem  Problems with memory or concentration (brain fog) Difficulty sleeping and night sweats Palpitations Headaches or migraines more frequently or worse than usual Muscle aches and joint pains Changes to your body shape and weight gain Skin changes, including dry and itchy skin Reduced sex drive or discomfort during sex Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) Help paying for hormone therapy As of April 1, 2023, many forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are covered under an  HRT Prepayment Prescription Certificate   What HRT treatments are available?   There are different ways to manage menopause symptoms. The most common is HRT, which can be:  Tablets   Skin patches  Oestrogen gel  Implants  Vaginal oestrogen  Testosterone gel Other treatment options Other treatments are available to help with specific symptoms of menopause. As your body changes, you may need to  adjust your habits, routines or lifestyle  to manage symptoms and protect your physical and mental wellbeing.  Discuss your options with your healthcare provider or support network to ensure you  find the right HRT treatment .  Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Alongside healthcare staff, it's important to have a personal support network of friends, family and colleagues who can help you get through this phase of life. Want more support?  If you want to know more about what you should expect from perimenopause and menopause, what support is available to you and advice on managing symptoms, check out these helpful resources:  NHS – Help and Support: Menopause   Menopause Support    The Menopause Charity – Menopause Support and Advice   NHS – Early Menopause   Age UK - Menopause symptoms and finding support

The Victoria Park Community Centre in Bridgwater, Somerset, will host an important event on Thursday 30 November, from 10am to 3pm, dedicated to enhancing the lives of Bridgwater residents who live with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Evolving Communities CIC  and  Healthwatch Somerset , in collaboration with NHS Somerset, are working together to empower people in Bridgwater who are affected by COPD, aiming to help them lead lives that are not just healthy, but also fulfilling. This initiative involves reaching out to local people who have COPD, as well as their families, friends, and caregivers, to gain valuable insights into their needs. This will inform decisions about how to provide the necessary support for accessing healthcare services, obtaining vital information, and taking proactive steps towards living well. Emma Savage, NHS Somerset Deputy Director of Quality and Improvement, will welcome people to the event and explain how the NHS is listening to local people to help improve services and support in Somerset. Book to join the focus group and share your views If you live with COPD in Bridgwater you are invited to join the focus group discussion  on Thursday 30 November (date revised) , to share your views and experiences with the project team (booking is required). Attendees who have COPD will receive £25 vouchers as a gesture of appreciation. Those willing to go the extra mile by volunteering as a Community Connector or featuring as a case study, could win a £100 supermarket voucher. To book your place, get in touch with Wendy Coward, Project Coordinator, via email:  wendy.coward@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk  or phone  07884 370503. Why focus on COPD in Bridgwater? Respiratory diseases continue to be a significant cause of health-related issues and mortality in Somerset. Among these, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) has a higher prevalence in Bridgwater compared to many other regions in England and the county. However, less than 50% of people in Bridgwater have had an annual review with their GP, meaning many are not receiving support or have not been diagnosed with COPD. Understanding COPD: COPD is an umbrella term for a group of lung conditions causing breathing difficulties, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. It primarily affects middle-aged or older adults, especially those with a history of smoking or exposure to environmental hazards. Effective treatments and medications are available to enhance breathing capacity and overall activity levels. Individuals can also take proactive measures to manage their condition, significantly enhancing their quality of life. About the COPD project: This community engagement project has been devised to enhance diagnosis, care, and support for COPD patients in Bridgwater. The objectives are to: Reach out, collaborate with and represent individuals living with COPD and chronic respiratory conditions, both diagnosed and undiagnosed. Foster a deeper understanding of their healthcare needs and requirements. Improve community support to alleviate health disparities they may face. Encourage positive actions towards living well. Volunteer Community Connectors are being recruited to assist with this initiative. If you reside in Bridgwater and either have COPD or possess a comprehensive understanding of respiratory diseases and health inequalities, your contribution will help improve health and wellbeing of your community and loved ones. Listen to  The Somerset Emotional Wellbeing Podcast ( castos.com )  on COPD and health inequalities In this episode, hosts Dr Peter Bagshaw and Dr Andrew Tresidder are joined by Wendy Coward from Healthwatch Somerset and Emma Savage from NHS Somerset to discuss what COPD is and what health inequalities are, how they are connected, and why the Bridgwater COPD initiative has been launched as part of NHS England’s Core20PLUS5 programme.

We are asking people to share their experience of booking face-to-face appointments with their GP to help improve access to GP services in the county. Concern about access to GPs continues to be one of the most common issues people raise with us. National and local evidence underscores the challenges people face when booking a GP appointment, including limited face-to-face appointments, increased use of digital technology, and long waiting times. Through our new public survey, we want to find out how you book appointments with your GP, for example, by phone, in person, online, via App or email. We also want to know if you have been offered a face-to-face appointment or an alternative option, and if that was suitable for you. Your feedback drives change Good access to GP services is an important measure of the quality of care being provided locally. Your feedback will help us identify the strengths and weaknesses in the current GP booking processes. We will share our findings with those responsible for GP services in Somerset to help them improve access to GP care.    It’s easy to share your views Complete our confidential survey before 31 January 2024 , to share your experiences and insights. (Survey now closed) If you prefer a paper copy or want to share your thoughts over the phone, call us free on 0800 999 1286. In addition to the survey, we will be conducting focus group discussions and actively participating in community events and venues to gather diverse perspectives. For more information, get in touch: Online:  healthwatchsomerset.co.uk Freephone  0800 999 1286 info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk

NHS social prescribing link workers can connect you to the right community groups and services to help support you. Around one in five GP visits are for non-medical problems. Many things that affect our health can’t be treated by doctors or medicine alone. This includes loneliness, money problems, housing, education or employment status.  What is social prescribing?  Social prescribing is when you work in partnership with a healthcare professional known as a  social prescribing link worker  to identify non-medical solutions. It is a way for health professionals to connect people to community activities, groups and services that support their practical, social, and emotional needs.   Social prescribing  isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, nor is it a replacement for medical care. It complements traditional healthcare by providing holistic support tailored to individual needs, preferences, and goals.  Social prescribing works particularly well for people  who:  Have one or more long-term conditions  Need support with low-level mental health issues  Are lonely or isolated  Have financial instability or are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis  Have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing.  How can I access social prescribing?  There are several ways to access social prescribing. GPs make a large proportion of social prescribing referrals. People can also be referred to local social prescribing link workers from  a wide range of local agencies , including wider general practice, local authorities, pharmacies, multi-disciplinary teams, hospital discharge teams, social care services and housing associations. Self-referral is also encouraged. How can a NHS social prescribing link worker help me?  Social prescribing link workers  will give you time to talk about what matters to you and take a holistic approach to your health and wellbeing to connect you to the right community groups and services. They then produce a  personalised care and support plan  and 'link' you to organisations and services that can help.  Examples of social prescribing services include:  Helping you join a befriending group, an art class or a community gardening project if you feel lonely or isolated  Connecting you to a service that helps with managing debt, claiming benefits or helping you to understand the welfare system if you’re struggling with finances  Helping you take up a form of exercise that works for you if you have a health condition. Need more information?  If you have more questions about social prescribing, NHS England has a list of  frequently asked questions .   Take a look at these other helpful resources:   Social prescribing | Patients Association   Social Prescribing: a new way to feel better | National Association of Link Workers   What is social prescribing? | Kings Fund The transformative effect of social prescribing | Patients Association   Viewpoint: Social prescribers have key role in tackling over-medicalisation of poor mental health | GPonline