1. Have your say on the use of technology to improve local health and care services

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    Halton residents have an opportunity to shape how technology will be used to improve access to care across the borough.

  2. Changes to Spirometry services

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    The public’s views are being sought on changes being made to Spirometry services in Halton and Warrington. 

  3. More admin staff needed to help tackle GP access issues

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    National GP patient survey sees a further fall in satisfaction, especially regarding making appointments. Read the Healthwatch response.

  4. Third of people in England lack confidence they can access critical NHS services

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    New research from Healthwatch England shows worryingly low public confidence in being able to access NHS services. A third of adults in England lack confidence that they can access timely care, including GP services, mental health support and hospital care. Read the findings and the calls for action.

  5. September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month

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    There are approximately 3,200 new cases of cervical cancer in the UK every year, which works out at nearly 9 new cases a day. But statistics don’t tell the full story, don’t show the impact that cervical cancer can have on real lives. We’re supporting Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust because we want to raise awareness and the voices of those affected by cervical cancer.

  6. The impact of waiting: the stories behind the numbers

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    With the NHS under immense pressure, Healthwatch look at the impact that waiting for a diagnosis, test, or treatment can have on individuals and some of the potential solutions that might help.

  7. NHS outlines how it will help improve access to GP practices across Cheshire and Merseyside

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    ​​​​​​​A new report sets out NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s plan for improving access and making it easier and simpler for patients to access the care they need, and supporting GP practices to manage demand and capacity through a range of additional measures. In 2023/24 this will be supported by a total of £90 million investment in primary care general practice and related measures contained in the plan.

  8. Public urged to use NHS 111 ahead of New Year doctor strike

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    People across Cheshire and Merseyside are being urged to use NHS 111 for all non-emergency healthcare needs ahead of industrial action by junior doctors early in the New Year.

  9. Make more time for the important things - order repeat prescriptions on the NHS App

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    Patients in Cheshire and Merseyside can save time by ordering regular medication using the NHS App.

    The NHS App is the quickest and easiest way to order a repeat prescription – and it puts you in better control of your own health.

    You can use the App to order your medication at a time that’s convenient for you, and select which pharmacy you would like your medication to be sent to each time you order.

  10. Visit your local pharmacy first for seven minor conditions

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    From 31 January, people across Cheshire & Merseyside can pop down to their local pharmacy for help with seven minor conditions which would previously have required a GP appointment.

  11. Share your feedback to improve care in your community

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    ‘Share for Better Care’, a new campaign launched by Healthwatch and the Care Quality Commission, addresses health inequalities across England.

  12. Help set our priorities for the next year!

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    We want to hear what matters to you and what areas of health and social care you think we should focus on for the year ahead. We are also giving you the chance to win a £25 gift voucher!

  13. NHS Prescription charges from 1 May 2024

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    The Department of Health and Social Care has announced that NHS prescription charges will increase on 1 May 2024.