Each year Northumberland Health Authority, in conjunction with Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust, reward practices for their innovative ideas in ways of working. These are known as the 'Good Practice' Awards which take place in October of each year.
Each and every General Practice in the whole of Northumberland are given the opportunity to be rewarded for the innovative ways in which they deliver Quality Patient Care, either directly or indirectly.
The criteria for receiving an award is that the idea should be innovative, shown to improve the quality of patient care and it should be measurable in the form of audit.
Wellway are very active each year in submitting nominations from all disciplines within our practice and have been successful in the following areas:
Research shows that children who are introduced to books at an early age have improved numeracy and literature skill at school entry.
With this in mind we involved the local community and developed a book corner where children could read, and take any books, during their visits to the GP and child health clinic.
The book corner has frequent visits from the local library to have story and rhyme times. The opening was celebrated with a party and during the following year colouring competitions have been held. Crayons and paper being in great demand during the child health clinic. We have a fun, relaxed atmosphere with bean bags, chairs and tables for tinies and parents to read and enjoy book together. - All Welcome.
Over a number of years Wellway has had a policy of positively encouraging the uptake of influenza and pneumococcal vaccine.
The result has been encouraging, but because of the numbers attending, it has let to disruption of routine ongoing clinic sessions. This also meant flu vaccine was being administered well after activity had begun, ie, November and early December.
After much discussion during early 1998 between all the staff, it was agreed to combine efforts and organise tow morning sessions. This would enable us to call a large number of patients with the minimum of disruption to surgeries and clinics.
Using the Department of Health recommendations, groups were identified by the computer system.
A computerised invitation sent to all patients with a specific appointment time given.
Posters were displayed in the surgery during September reminding patients about vaccination.
These clinics proved to be extremely successful and have continued in subsequent years in all 3 surgeries.
This arose from a reflective critical assessment of the immunisation of children. We wished to base the new format on a child centred (friendly) approach in order to prevent a traumatic experience to the child. We devised new appointment letters, invitations for older children using Disney design software as well as suggestions on how parents can prepare their child. We encourage a relaxed, informal friendly environment during the immunisation and the child rewarded with bravery award stickers and bubbles. Toys and colouring books are available during the appointment session.
We have found older children enjoy receiving a personalised invitation and love receiving personal bravery awards. The appointment moves along at the child's pace thereby maintaining a relaxed atmosphere.
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