October 2025 Newsletter
Greenwich Carers Centre - What's On?
If you're a carer, there are several upcoming events designed to support you.
- WED 12th November - Men's Carers Group - FREE -Greenwich Carers Centre - 10:30AM to 3.00PM
- THURS 20th November- Benefits Advice with Alan Kerr - FREE - Greenwich Carers Centre 11:00am to 3:00pm
- THURS 20th November - Carers Rights DayCarers Assessment Workshop and Information Drop-In - Greenwich Carers Centre 11.00AM to 2:00PM
- MON 24th November - Greenwich Mental Health Carers Support Group -Online - 2.00PM - 3.30PM
If you have any questions call 0300 300 2233 or contact Robyn by email: activities@greenwichcarers.org
Flu Season Is Here
We're now offering flu vaccinations to all eligible patients at the practice. Getting your flu jab is the best way to protect yourself and those around you this winter.
You're eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine if you fall into one of the following groups:
- Aged 18-64 and at higher risk due to a health condition
- Aged 65 or over
- Children aged 2-3 years (nasal flu vaccine available at the practice)
- Children aged 4 and above- vaccination offered through schools
If you're eligible and haven't had your flu jab yet, please contact the practice to book your appointment.
Emergency Contraception Now Free at Pharmacies!
You can now get emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) for free from your local community pharmacy.
There's no need to see a GP,just visit a participating pharmacy, have a short private chat with the pharmacist, and they can provide it if it's suitable for you.
This change makes it quicker and easier to get emergency contraception when you need it The sooner it's taken, the more effective it is-so don't delay if you think you might need it If you're unsure which pharmacies offer this service, please ask a member of our team or visit our website.
Macmillan Coffee Morning
A big thank you to everyone who took part in our Macmillan Cancer Support Coffee Morning. The event was organised by Nurse
Aublin, who did a fantastic job bringing the team together for a great cause.
Thanks to the generosity of our staff (and some impressive baking skills), we raised £200 to support Macmillan's vital work
helping people living with cancer. Well done to everyone involved!
July 2025 Newsletter
NEWSTAFF
We're excited to welcome some new members to our team!
Salma has joined us as our new receptionist, bringing with her valuable prior experience in reception and patient-facing
roles. We're also pleased to introduce Lakshmi, our new GP Assistant, who will be supporting our administrative teams.
In addition, we're delighted that two of our trainee doctors will be joining us as salaried doctors. Dr Deepa Pushpa will start in August, followed by Dr James Rogers in October. We're confident they'll all be fantastic additions to the practice, and we look forward to the continued high level of care and service they will help us provide.
Greenwich carers Centre-What's On?
If you're a carer, there are several upcoming events designed to support you.
- THURS 10th - Carers Meet Up at Eltham Library Eltham Library SE9 1HA 11:00AM- to 12:00PM
- WED 16th - Peer Support Bereavement Group - FREE Greenwich Carers Centre SE7 7BD 10:30AM to 1:00PM
- FRI 25th Garden Party & Talent Show & BBQ-£5 entry Greenwich Carers Centre SE7 7BD 11:00 AM to 3.00PM
- MON 28th Greenwich Mental Health Peer Support Group Online 2:00PM to 3:30PM
- WED 30th Greenwich Time to Talk- Building Resilience - Free Greenwich Carers Centre SE7 7BD 1.00PM to 3.00PM
If you have any questions call 0300 300 2233 or contact Robyn by email: activities@greenwichcarers.org
Travel vaccinations
Planning a trip abroad? Don't forget to check if you need travel vaccinations. To ensure we can provide the right advice and vaccinations
in time, please complete the Travel Vaccination Form on our website at least 6 weeks before your travel date.
This allows our team to review your itinerary, check current vaccination requirements, and book you in accordingly. Delays may mean we're unable to offer all the protection you need. So plan ahead and stay safe while you travel.
STAY CONNECTED FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK!
We're now on lnstagram and Facebook!
Follow us for the latest updates, health tips, and practice news.
Important changes to childhood vaccinations
From 1st July, there will be some changes to the routine childhood vaccination schedule for babies born on or after 1st July 2024. These changes are being made to help protect babies earlier and simplify the vaccination process.
- The second MenB (meningitis B) vaccine will now be given at 12 weeks instead of 16 weeks.
- The pneumococcal (PCV) vaccine will now be given at 16 weeks instead of 12 weeks.
- The Hib/MenC vaccine, usually given at 12 months, will no longer be needed.
- Babies at higher risk of hepatitis B will now receive an extra dose at 18 months.
- And from January 2026, the second MMR and an extra dose of the 6-in-1 vaccine will be given earlier, at 18 months
instead of over 3 years old.
These changes aim to give your baby stronger protection earlier in life. If you have any questions, please speak to one of our
nurses for more details.
April 2025 Newsletter
AS SPRING IS RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER IT BRINGS US WARMER WEATHER AND LONGER DAYS. WE ARE PLEASED TO BRING YOU OUR LASTEST NEWSLETTER FROM THAMESMEAD MEDICAL ASSOCIATES. THIS PROVIDES THE BEST HEALTH TIPS FOR UPCOMING SPRING.
SEASONAL HEALTH TIPS
Spring is here, bringing longer days and warmer weather. However, it also brings seasonal allergies, changes in temperate; and the temptation to overindulge in Easter treats. Here are some tips to keep yourself feeling your best:
- Allergy season alert: If you suffer from hay fever, start taking antihistamines early, keep windows closed during high
pollen coun~ and wash cloths after being outdoors.
- Balanced Eating Over Easter: Enjoy your Easter treats in moderation and balance them with healthy meals rich in fruit and vegetables.
- Mental Well-Being: Take advantage of the brighter days spend time outdoors, get regular exercise, and practice mindfulness.
MINOR ILLNESSES- DIGITAL TRIAGE & PHARMACY REFERRALS
Did you know you can refer yourself to a pharmacy for minor illnesses? This allows you to get fast, expert advice without needing a GP appointment.
Conditions that can be treated by a Pharmacist include:
- Cold or flu symptoms
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Diarrhoea
- Skin conditions or rashes
- HayFever
Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who can provide clinic advice and medicines for minor ailments. Appointments are available same day at a time that suits you.
Please note our acljusted hours for the Easter Period:
- Good Friday (March 29th) : Closed
- Easter Monday (April 1st ): Close
- Open as normal on all other days.
Please ensure you order any necessary repeat prescriptions in advance.
GREENWICH CARERS CENTRE -
WHATS ON?
If you are a carer, there are several upcoming events designed to support you.
- WED 16th April Carer's Digital Support Drop in-FREE without our IT specialists Greenwich Carer's Centre 10:30am to
12:00pm
- THURS 17th 111 Past Times & Pass Time- Dementia friendly group Greenwich Carers Centre 1:00pm to 3:00pm
- THURS 24th Carers Meet Up at Greenwich Carers Centre 11:00am to 12:00pm
- MON 28th Greenwich Mental Health Peer Support Greenwich Carers Centre 2:00pm to 3:30pm
If you have any questions call 0300 300 2233 or contact Robyn by Email: activities@greenwichcarers.org
December 2024 Newsletter
AS WE APPROACH THE FESTIVE SEASON, WE WANT TO TAKE A MOMENT TO THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF OUR COMMUNITY, OUR TEAM REMAINS DEDICATED TO SUPPORTING YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING.
IN THIS EDITION OF OUR NEWSLETTER, YOU'LL FIND IMPORTANT UPDATES, TIPS FOR STAYING HEAL THY DURING THE HOLIDAYS, AND INFORMATION ABOUT OUR SERVICES OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD.
Vaccine Season
Flu Vaccine
We provide flu vaccinations to all eligible patients. To be eligible you must fit into one of the below groups:
- 18 to 64 years or age and at risk
- 65+ years of age
- 2 to 3 years old and receive nasal flu vaccine.
Children agreed 4 and up should have the immunisation offered at school
Shingles Vaccine
To be eligible for the shingles vaccine you have to be 65 or 70 years of age during the period of 01/09/2023 and 31/08/2028 and aged between 70 and 79 years old before 31/08/2023.
If you are eligible one of our staff will contact you to book you in with a nurse.
RSV Vaccine
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major respiratory virus that is common over the winter period from October to February. RSV can be very severe in older adults, causing pneumonia, flare-ups of existing lung disease and other long-term conditions. The below groups are eligible:
- 75 to 79 year olds (before 80th birthday)
- Pregnant women can receive it at 28+ weeks.
Automated Registrations
In line with NHSE contract we have made some changes to our registrations. Healthtech-1 simplifies patient registrations by using the technology to handle the process automatically. Instead of filling out paper forms that staff must manually enter into the system, patients provide their information online. The system then checks the data, verifies it against NHS records and updates the clinic's system without human intervention. This approach saves time, reduces errors and allows patients to be registered promptly often on the same day instead of waiting days.
Winter Health Tips For Staying Well
Take care of your mental health
The shorter days can impact mood so spend time with loved ones, get as much daylight as possible and consider mindfulness or relaxation exercises.
Get vaccinated
Ensure you're up to date with your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to reduce the risk of severe illness
Boost your immunity
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C and D to strengthen your immune system.
Stay hydrated by drinking water and warm drinks like tea or soup.
Christmas opening hours
| 24 December |
8.00am to 6.30pm |
| 25 December |
Closed |
| 26 December |
Closed |
| 27 December |
8.00am to 6.30pm |
| 28 December |
Closed |
| 29 December |
Closed |
| 30 December |
8.00am to 6.30pm |
| 31 December |
8.00am to 6.30pm |
| 01 January |
Closed |
| 02 January |
8.00am to 6.30pm |
August 2024 Newsletter
CYBER ATTACK UPDATE
IN JUNE OF THIS YEAR, SYNNOVIS, ONE OF THE KEY PROVIDERS OF LABORATORY SERVICES FOR THE NHS, WAS TARGETED IN A CYBER ATTACK THAT TEMPORARILY DISRUPTED PATHOLOGY SERVICES. WE WANT TO KEEP OUR PATIENTS INFORMED ABOUT THE IMPACT OF THIS INCIDENT AND REASSURE YOU ABOUT THE STEPS BEING TAKEN.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The cyber attack targeted Synnovis lab systems, causing temporary disruptions to Pathology services. While no patient data has
been reported as compromised, the attack did lead to delays and cancellations in processing lab results, which affected the turnaround time for all tests.
How It Affects Our Patients
- Test Result Delays: If you had any tests done during or shortly after the attack, there may have been delays in processing your results. We encourage patients contact the surgery if they are still awaiting results or need further information.
- Patient Data Security: There is no evidence that any personal or medical information was compromised during the attack Synnovis and the NHS have assured that patient data remains secure, and they are continuing to strengthen their cyber defences.
- Ongoing Recovery. Although most systems have been restored, some services may still experience minor delays as the labs catchup with the backlog caused by the disruption. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.
If you have been affected by the cyber incident there is now a national help line for members of the public to contact by dialling0345 8778967
TRAVEL SEASON
Before heading abroad , check if your destination requires any vaccines, such as for hepatitis A, typhoid, or yellow fever. Book a travel consultation with us 8 weeks in advance to get vaccinated by simply filling out a travel vaccination form on our website.
TRAVEL FIRST AID KITS
Having a well-stocked first aid kit can save you a lot of trouble when you're away from home. Consider packing the following essentials.
- Pain relief medication(paracetamol or Ibuprofen)
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions or hay fever
- Antiseptic wipes and plasters for minor cuts
- Insect repellent and bite cream
- Any prescription medications you take regularly
April 2024 Newsletter
AS SPRING BLOSSOMS AROUND US, WE'RE DELIGHTED TO BRING YOU OUR LATEST NEWSLETTER FROM THAMESMEAD MEDICAL ASSOCIATES, APRIL IS A TIME OF RENEWAL AND HOPE, AND THIS MONTH'S NEWSLETTER IS FILLED WITH UPDATES, HEALTH TIPS, AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO KEEP YOU INFORMED ON YOUR HEALTH JOURNEY.
PATIENT TRIAGE
We've revamped our on line forms, transitioning away from on line consult and embracing AccuRx starting from January. This change marks an exciting step forward in improving efficiency and enhancing patient care. To access our on line forms, simply visit our website and click 'Consult with your GP Online.' You'll find options to submit both Medical and Admin queries. Under the Admin section, you'll find options for fit notes, test results, repeat prescriptions, and any other administrative tasks.
RADIOLOGY
South East London NHS has implemented a new electronic requesting system for radiology exams (X-ray, Ultrasound, CT, MRI, Bone Density and Nuclear Medicine).
This means that your GP no longer needs to fill out paper request forms if you require
one of these examinations.
For X-rays, you can simply walk in for the service at Queen Elizabeth's Hospital. For all other tests, the hospital will contact you directly to arrange the appointment.
Additionally, the results from these examinations will be sent back to your GP electronically. The specific process may vary slightly depending on the type of exam required.
SPRING HEALTH TIPS
Protect Yourself from Allergens: Spring time allergies can be a nuisance for many people, so take steps to minimize exposure to allergens. Keep windows closed on high pollen days, shower after spending time outdoors, and consider using allergy-friendly bedding and air purifiers in your home.
Travel Vaccinations Reminder: Planning a trip? Don't forget to arrange your travel vaccinations in advance! To ensure we can accommodate your needs, please fill out one of our travel vaccination forms at least six weeks before your departure date. This allows us ample time to schedule your appointments and administer any necessary vaccinations before you travel.
December 2023 Newsletter
WELCOME ALL TO OUR NEW PPG NEWSLETTER. THE LATEST NEWS ON ALL DEVELOPMENTS WITHIN THAMESMEAD MEDICAL ASSOCIATES. WE HAVE DECIDED AS A PRACTICE TO NO LONGER HOLD MEETINGS INSTEAD YOU WILL BE RECEIVING OUR NEWSLETTER EVERY 3 MONTHS BY EMAIL
Opening Hours
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Christmas Eve Closed
Christmas Day Closed
Boxing Day Closed
27th December 8:00am to 6:30 pm
28th December 8:00am to 6:30 pm
29th December 8:00am to 6:30 pm
30th December Closed
New Year's Eve Closed
New Year's Day Closed
Normal opening hours from Tuesday 2nd January
PHONE SYSTEM
We're excited to introduce our new phone system, which allows you to minimise your wait time. Instead of waiting in a queue in the morning, you can now select for a call-back service at your convenience.
Simply select this option, and be confident that when your time in the queue comes, we will immediately ring you, allowing you to go about your day without having to wait on hold. The change was put in place with your convenience in mind, delivering a smooth
and efficient experience for all.
NEW STAFF
We have the pleasure in presenting the newest members of Thamesmead Medical Associates. Dr. Stasopoulou and Dr. Ebubdike have joined us as salaried GPs, bringing their knowledge and commitment to improving the quality of care we offer.
Darshita, our new receptionist, is looking forward to ensuring a welcoming and efficient experience for all of our patients. We are also pleased to welcome Rachel as our new medical secretary and Kaz who has taken the role of IT Administrator. We remain committed to providing you with the best standard of healthcare as we grow and change.
FLU AND SHINGLES
As the flu season approaches once more, we provide flu vaccinations to all eligible patients. To be eligible for the flu vaccine, you must be 65 or older. If you are between the ages of 18 and 64 and are at risk, as well as children aged 2-3 years. Children aged 4 and up should have the immunisation offered at school.
Those turning 65 and 70, as well as those already aged 70-80, will be eligible to receive the Shingles vaccine after their birthdays beginning September 1, 2023. Patients will be contacted by their practice when they become eligible.