**Autumn Newsletter**
We would like to thank Peartree PatientVoices for their support with our new periodic newsletter.
PatientVoices is always looking for new members. Please see the information in the newsletter or visit here.
Please click on the link to read the latest Peartree Group Practice Newsletter
** Cervical Screening – Changes to Recalls from 1 July 2025 **
From July 2025, anyone who is screened on or after 1 July 2025 and tests negative for HPV will move to 5 yearly screening unless previous screening history suggests they should be screened more regularly. This means that patients aged 25 – 49 who are negative after 1 July will be recalled every 5 years instead of every 3 years.
Invitations will be sent via the NHS App, Text or Letter depending upon your chosen method of communication, so please look out for those messages. Smear appointments are available to book in the usual way, so once you have received your invitation, please contact a member of our admin team who will be happy to assist. Please note that smears cannot be taken earlier than your scheduled recall if you have a health concern, unless required by a GP.
A new leaflet is now available which provides information about cervical screening
Your-Guide-to-NHS-Cervical-Screening-Information-Leaflet.pdf
** Weight Loss Injections **
Recently there has been a lot of media coverage about the use of weight loss injections (Mounjaro, Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda) and as it stands, the NHS has no formal service to safely prescribe these medications under the obesity licence despite the demand.
We currently provide these medications for eligible type 2 diabetes patients who are struggling with clinical obesity under diabetes optimisation plans.
** Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine **
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of coughs and colds and most people will get it several times during their life.
RSV infections usually get better by themselves, but can sometimes be serious for babies and older adults.
It usually gets better by itself, but in some people (especially babies and older adults) it can cause illnesses such as:
- Pneumonia (a lung infection)
- Bronchiolitis (a chest infection that affects babies)
These illnesses can cause serious breathing problems and may need to be treated in hospital as they can be life-threatening.
The RSV vaccine is recommended if:
- You are pregnant – the vaccine is recommended during every pregnancy (from 28 weeks onwards) to help protect your baby after they are born
- You are aged 75 – 79 (up until the day before your 80th birthday)
If you are 80 or over:
- You are not eligible for the RSV vaccine
You do not have to wait to be invited, if you are eligible, please contact the surgery for an appointment.