We offer a range of clinics and services at the surgery. There are some tasks you can do, such as health reviews, using the PATCHS service.
Cervical smear tests
All women aged 25 to 49 are now offered a cervical smear test every 3 years. From age 50 to 64 years the test is every 5 years if all appears normal. The test is a quick pain-free procedure undertaken by a doctor or practice nurse.
If you are invited to have a smear test please contact the surgery to make an appointment. You cannot be tested while you are menstruating so be sure to make your appointment before or after your period is due. You should also avoid sex for 24 hours before the test.
It is important to attend for screening as women who have a cervical smear test every 3 years reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer by 80-90% because the test can identify women who are at risk before the disease actually starts.
NHS health check plus
NHS health checks are being offered to people aged between 40 and 74 once every five years. The check is to assess your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease or diabetes. By taking early action, you can improve your health and prevent the onset of these conditions. There is good evidence for this. Patients who already suffer from one of the above mentioned conditions will not be invited for the health check as they should already attend for annual reviews with this GP or Practice Nurse.
The check should take about 20–30 minutes and is based on straightforward questions and measurements such as age, sex, family history, height, weight and blood pressure. There will also be a simple blood test to measure your cholesterol level. Following the check, you will receive free personalised advice about what you can do to stay healthy.
If you feel you are eligible, please ring the surgery on 01744 882855 and say you would like an NHS health check and we will make an appointment for you.
Family planning
Family planning advice is available from all the doctors in normal surgery hours.
Influenza vaccinations
In October every year we offer a completely free flu vaccination to our patients who are identified as being at risk. e.g. the elderly, those with heart or chest problems, diabetes etc. Please ask the practice nurse or one of the doctors for further details.
Maternity care
Maternity care is usually arranged on a shared basis between ourselves, your midwife and a specialist at one of the local maternity units.
Minor surgery
Certain joint injections can be performed by the doctors within the health centre following an initial consultation.
Nurse-led clinics
All clinics are by invitation or appointment. For clinic times, please see either the receptionist or practice nurse. If you have been advised to submit a review prior to one of these clinics, please use the PATCHS service.
- Antenatal
- Asthma
- Child health surveillance
- Diabetic
- Family planning
- Hypertension
- Immunisation
- Ischaemic heart disease
- Phlebotomy
- Wellperson
- Wellwoman
Travel vaccinations
If you require any vaccinations relating to foreign travel you will be required to complete an online travel form. You can do this using the PATCHS service.
The practice nurse will determine which vaccinations are required. Please allow 3 days after submitting your form then call the surgery. You will be told which vaccinations are required and be asked to make an appointment.
External services
The services below are not managed by the doctors at Rainford Health Centre:
Phlebotomy
To book a blood test please visit www.sthk.simplybook.cc (online booking available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week), or via phone on 0808 196 4500 (telephone booking is available between midday and 3pm, Monday to Friday).
Treatment room services
For ear syringing, removal of stitches, dressings please call 0800 953 0960 and press option 2. You can call between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Audiology
For hearing aid batteries please call 01744 646027.