A supplier to the NHS has advised them of a global shortage of some equipment used for taking blood tests. NHS England have therefore issued guidance to GPs that all non-urgent blood tests should be halted.

Anyone who needs a test for urgent health problems will still get one, but where your clinician recommends that it’s safe to do so, then you may be asked to come back for a test at a later date, or your appointment may be rescheduled. 

Given the nature of the shortage, we cannot give an exact date for when the test will be rescheduled, but please be assured that if your condition or symptoms require it, then you will get a test, and we will be re-booking your test when supplies become more easily available.

If your condition or symptoms change or get worse, please contact the NHS as you would normally.

We are currently working on this years flu vaccination clinics which are likely to start on Saturday 24th September.    The guidance hasn’t been confirmed yet on COVID boosters and whether , if we are to give, they can be given at the same time as a flu vaccine or not.  As soon as we are given the information, rest assured we will inform our patients and book clinics accordingly.  Please refrain from calling the practice regarding this as we do not have any further information.  Thank you