It’s that time of year again when the annual GP patient survey results are published. Overall, the results for Dorset are promising with 81% of people saying their experience of their GP practice was good, a slight increase on last year.

Lyme Bay Medical Practice scored an overall patient satisfaction of 85% much higher than the national average of 75% and better than the local average of 81%.

Download and view a summary of the Practice results here>>

This year there are various ways you can look at the data and analyse results using this link>> https://www.gp-patient.co.uk/ 

You can also view the summary for Dorset in their news article here>> https://nhsdorset.nhs.uk/news/dorset-patients-give-local-gp-practices-high-marks-once-again/

Currently in Dorset, people with a diagnosis of either coeliac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis can receive an NHS prescription for gluten-free bread or flour mixes (subject to normal NHS prescription charge rules). In line with other health regions in England, NHS Dorset is considering changing this, meaning that people would no longer be able to obtain these items on an NHS prescription. A consultation is currently underway, more information and a survey can be found by following this link>> https://nhsdorset.nhs.uk/health/medicines/helpyournhs/gluten/ 

The survey closes the 20th of August 2025.

Hopefully most of us will be getting out and about this summer, enjoying some of the fantastic scenery and coastline Dorset has to offer. A warning has been put out regarding paying for parking at Dorset Council car parks. QR code stickers have appeared on several pay and display machines that take people to a legitimate-looking website, where people input their payment details.

The council has confirmed they do not use QR codes for their parking machines, people should use cash/card payments at parking machines or use an authorised app. Anyone who feels they may have entered payment details on a scam website should contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit their website: https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ 

The State of Caring survey is the UK’s most comprehensive regular research into the lives and experiences of unpaid carers. It is used as a vital source of evidence not only by Carers UK, but by many other organisations including Government, local authorities, health and social care services, charities and carers groups.

The survey for 2025 has now been launched - if you look after a loved one, please take some time to complete the survey, it will help get a better understanding about the lives of unpaid carers in the UK

Complete the survey online here>>

The survey closes on the 10th of August 2025

For more information about the survey follow this link to the Carers UK website>>   

Owned and run by the NHS, the NHS App is a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services on your smartphone or tablet. Using the NHS App you can:

• Order a repeat prescription through your nominated pharmacy
• Check your symptoms
• Book and cancel appointments
• View existing and book future appointments
• View your medical records including test results
• Find NHS information on hundreds of conditions
• Use NHS 111 for urgent help online
• Manage decisions around organ, tissue and blood donations.

A range of digital tools is available alongside the NHS App, giving people an important choice in how they access GP services online.

Learn more about the NHS App on the NHS website here>>

From time to time amber heat alerts are issued for the south-west.  There are updates online and from reputable social media channels (NHS Dorset, BCP Council, Dorset Council for example). You can find excellent information and advice during the hot weather from the NHS Dorset Stay Well website here>>

Young people across Dorset have a vibrant, inclusive space to connect, grow, and be themselves thanks to Space Youth Project, a dedicated organization supporting LGBT+ youth through a variety of free programs and services.

Space Youth Project runs free weekly groups throughout Dorset, offering a safe and welcoming environment where LGBT+ young people can meet, make friends, and take part in fun and meaningful activities. From art and cooking to Pride-themed events, these sessions are designed to build confidence and foster a sense of belonging.

Beyond group activities, the project provides one-to-one support, family guidance, and professional training, making it a vital resource for not just young individuals, but also their families and the wider community.

Participants are encouraged to share their experiences, either in peer discussions or privately with experienced Youth Workers, helping them to feel seen, heard, and supported.

Space Youth Project’s mission is to help young LGBT+ individuals develop their skills and self-confidence, all within a safe and supportive space that celebrates diversity.

Visit their website for more information and how to contact them>>

Regularly checking your blood pressure is one of the easy ways to help monitor your health. There is an app available that can link your blood pressure readings (whether you take them at home or at a healthcare or community venue) to your GP practice.

 For more information drop me a line, contact your practice and ask to speak to the digital care coordinator or follow this link: https://ourdorset.org.uk/digital/bphome/

As part of your regular self-care routine have you considered checking your head and neck for changes or anything unusual?  Watch this video from Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK which includes tips for regular checks.