Diazepam for fear of flying We no longer prescribe diazepam or other sedatives for fear of flying. Diazepam can cause drowsiness, slower reactions and poor concentration. It can also cause unexpected reactions in some people. These effects may make flying less safe, especially if there is an emergency. Diazepam can also interact with alcohol and may … Continued

Use of Heidi AI in Our Practice We use Heidi Health, an AI system, to help write notes during your appointment. AI means it is a computer program that can listen and create a draft of your consultation notes. It does not give medical advice or make decisions. Your doctor always checks and approves everything. Why We Use … Continued

Statement of Purpose Introduction West Road & Louisa Surgeries aims to provide high-quality, patient centred primary healthcare to the communities of Annfield Plain and Stanley. We are committed to treating every individual with dignity, respect, and compassion. Vision & Values Accessibility & Inclusivity Quality & Professionalism Patient Engagement & Respect Digital Innovation Safety & Confidentiality … Continued

Data Sharing in the NHS Patient data in the NHS is only ever shared for two reasons: to provide patients with the best possible care, and the planning and research needed to design health care services that suit patients.   Patient data is only ever shared within the NHS or with legitimate third parties who help … Continued

We want everyone to feel welcome and able to visit our practice. Here’s how we make it easy for people to get around and use our building:

Accountable GP From the 1st April 2015 the NHS requires that every patient is allocated a named accountable GP. All patients registered patients have been allocated a named GP and any newly registered patients will be allocated a named GP within 21 days of registering. This is for administrative purposes only and you retain the … Continued

Greener Practice This practice is delighted to be signed up to the Green Impact for Health Toolkit and is actively taking steps to reduce our carbon footprint. The climate emergency is also a health emergency, and health care in the UK contributes 5.4% of the UK’s carbon emissions. We need to enhance the health of … Continued

Complaint We aim to provide high-quality care at all times. There may be occasions, however, when you feel this has not happened.  If you are genuinely unhappy with any aspect of our service, please contact Lesley Lee, our Practice Manager, in writing or by contacting her at the surgery. Complaint procedure We operate an informal in-house complaints … Continued