April 2026 Practice Update
As we welcome April, we’re sharing important NHS updates, digital developments, and key health awareness dates for the month ahead.
NHS UpdatesThe NHS continues its focus on improving patient access, reducing waiting times, and expanding digital services across primary care. In 2026, there is a strong emphasis on prevention, early diagnosis, and making it easier for patients to access the right care at the right time.Screening programmes and community-based care remain key priorities, alongside continued support for mental health services and long-term condition management.Our practice remains committed to providing safe, high-quality, and accessible care for all our patients.
EMMA – Our AI Support ToolWe are continuing to roll out EMMA, powered by QuantumLoopAI.EMMA is your AI receptionist, designed specifically for NHS GP surgeries. She can manage multiple patient queries at once, helping to reduce phone queues and improve access to the practice.What this means for you:
- Faster response times
- Improved access to support
- More efficient handling of routine queries
EMMA works alongside our experienced team and does not replace clinical care. It simply helps us deliver a smoother and more responsive service.
New: Self-Referral to CORA HealthPatients can now self-refer directly to CORA Health for musculoskeletal (MSK) concerns such as:
- Back pain
- Joint or muscle problems
- Sports injuries
This allows you to access physiotherapy support quickly without needing to see a GP first.👉 Start your referral here: https://www.corahealth.co.uk/referrals/
April Health Awareness DatesApril includes several important health awareness campaigns:7 April – World Health Day
A global day to raise awareness of important health topics and encourage healthier lifestyles.Stress Awareness Month (All Month)
Focuses on recognising and managing stress. If you are struggling, please reach out to the practice for support.11 April – World Parkinson’s Day
Raising awareness and support for those living with Parkinson’s.17 April – World Haemophilia Day
Highlighting bleeding disorders and the importance of early diagnosis and care.25 April – World Malaria Day
Raising awareness of prevention and global health efforts.
💬 Supporting Your HealthApril is a great time to:
- Book any overdue reviews or health checks
- Seek support for muscle or joint pain via CORA
- Manage stress and mental wellbeing
- Check your contact details are up to date
- Use the NHS App for easy access to services
If you need advice or would like to book an appointment, please contact reception or use our online services.
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Out-of-hours appointments
Out-of-hours appointments are available from 6:30pm to 8pm on weekdays, and from 9am to 5pm on Saturdays.
An out-of-hours appointment might not be at your regular GP surgery. When you book an appointment, you will be told where the appointment will be. These appointments will not be available as walk-in appointments. You will need to book them in advance.
To book an out-of-hours appointment, you should contact your regular GP practice in the usual way. They will advise you on the appointments which are available, and which healthcare professional is the right person to help you. If an out of hours appointment needs to be cancelled, please contact your surgery unless it is a Saturday then please call 07513 094 494 for cancellation only.
If you need medical help now but it’s not an emergency, you can also go to 111 online or call 111.
If you need clinical assistance, please use eConsult. The eConsult will be clinically triaged by a General Practitioner and you will then be contacted with an outcome. See our Online Service tab to access this service.
If your appointment is to see a nurse for: Asthma and COPD annual reviews, first time contraceptive advice, Wound Management, Smear, Child Imms, Adult Imms, Removal of Sutures or Blood Pressure, please contact the surgery by phone to make your appointment. 01702 482900
NHS App
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 – including ordering prescriptions and viewing booked appointments.
Online consultations allow you to input information so your doctors can triage your concerns and offer the right care. Once completed we will get back to you within 2 working days, if not sooner.
NHS App
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 – including ordering prescriptions and viewing booked appointments.
Online consultations allow you to input information so your doctors can triage your concerns and offer the right care. Once completed we will get back to you within 2 working days, if not sooner.
Helpful links to guides from the NHS
NHS
HEALTH A to Z
Guide to conditions,symptoms & treatments
NHS
LIVE WELL
Advice, tips and toolsfor health & wellbeing
NHS
MEDICINES GUIDE
How medicine works& possible side effects
NHS
care & support
Options & where toget the best support
Know who to turn to for your healthcare
We want to help you get the right medical assistance when you’re ill, injured or have a long term condition. Going directly to the person with the appropriate skills is important. This can help you to a speedier recovery and makes sure all NHS services are run efficiently.
NHS 111 is available 24 hours
a day, 7 days a week.
If it is an emergency call 999.
PHARMACIST
When you need healthcare advice or help with medicines
OPTICIAN
Sudden loss of vision. Blurred vision. Painful or red eyes?
DENTIST
When your mouth or teeth need urgent attention
NHS OUT-OF-HOURS
When your GP and local pharmacy are closed
MINOR INJURY
You will usually need a GP referral, except in an emergency.
ACCIDENT & EMERGENCY
When an illness or injury is serious or life-threatening
DID YOU KNOW?
If you’re feeling under the weather but aren’t sure what it could be, an online symptom checker can help you identify whether you need to seek immediate medical attention.
