Abortion/Termination of Pregnancy Services

An abortion is a procedure to end a pregnancy. It’s also sometimes known as a termination of pregnancy. The pregnancy is ended either by taking medicines or having a surgical procedure. More information about abortions can be found on the NHS website. How to get an abortion Abortions can only be carried out under the […]

Last modified: February 6, 2024

Drink Spiking and Needle Spiking

What is Spiking Spiking is giving someone alcohol or drugs without them knowing or agreeing. For example, in their drink or with a needle. You can find help about how to protect yourself on a night out here. What to do if you think you have been spiked Tell someone Spiking someone is against the […]

Last modified: February 1, 2024

Eye Emergencies

Sunderland Eye Infirmary The nearest 24/7 eye hospital to Durham is Sunderland Eye Infirmary. This is not like a normal accident and emergency department in that you need to phone them first on 0191 569 9952. The hospital address is: Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Queen Alexandra Road, Sunderland, SR2 9HP (Google Maps) Alternative Eye Emergency Hospitals

Last modified: January 3, 2024

Eye Problems

The GP practice is often not the best place to visit in the first instance for an eye problem. There are two other NHS services locally that can provide more expert help for eye problems. For eye emergencies, Sunderland Eye Infirmary provides round the clock access. For non-emergency problems, several local opticians are able to […]

Last modified: January 3, 2024

Moving Your ADHD Care to Claypath Medical Practice

Transferring from Another UK General Practice Surgery Initial Checks Shared Care Agreement Intervening Prescriptions Transferring from Overseas Medication Supply Initial Registration Establishing a Shared Care Agreement Engagement with UK Psychiatrist Getting in Touch It’s imperative to get in touch with us and initiate the registration process early to ensure a smooth transition of your care. […]

Last modified: March 5, 2024

Friends and Family Test

We invite patients to submit their feedback to use via the Friends and Family test. Please complete the form below to send your response. Thanks for taking the time to help us to improve!

Last modified: July 18, 2023

Our Year of Care Process – An Overview

We’re excited to give you a snapshot of our Year of Care Process. This is a comprehensive system we’ve set up to ensure you receive the best care possible. It’s a simple 2-step process that ensures a thorough health check, followed by an informed consultation. Step 1: Workup To kick things off, a junior nurse […]

Last modified: July 4, 2023

Dr. McDevitte’s Departure

Dear Patients, We have an important update regarding our medical staff. Dr. McDevitte will be leaving our practice on 23rd July 2023. Her dedicated service has been invaluable, and her commitment to patient care has always been a shining example. We thank Dr. McDevitte for her contributions and wish her all the best for her […]

Last modified: July 4, 2023

Our approach to shared care prescribing

Some medications that are started by a specialist require something called a shared care agreement in order for the practice to prescribe it on an ongoing basis. The purpose of the shared care agreement is to clearly describe what the responsibilities are for the specialist and the GP in terms of monitoring the medication. This […]

Last modified: May 4, 2023

Request repeat medication using form

We strongly encourage our patients to use the NHS app to request their repeat medication. This app saves both the patient and surgery time, making it easier and more convenient to order medication. With the NHS app, patients can request repeat prescriptions at any time, from anywhere. The app is free and available to download […]

Last modified: April 11, 2023

NHS App

How to use the NHS app The Hope Foundation in Middlesbrough have created an excellent series of videos for how to use the NHS app. Their videos are linked to below. How to download and install on iPhone How to download and install on Android Phone How to setup using photo ID How to request […]

Last modified: April 13, 2023

Blood Pressure Review Checks

We regularly review patient records at the practice to maintain and improve quality and the care you receive. During a recent review, we noted that over the last 2 years we have recorded a high blood pressure reading for you (above 140/90) during visits to the practice. Why might my blood pressure have been high? […]

Last modified: April 5, 2024

Blood pressure checks

If you are older than 45, it is a good idea to have your blood pressure checked every 5 years. We have reviewed the practice records and found we don’t have a recorded blood pressure reading for you from the last 5 years. If we find your blood pressure is high, that might mean you […]

Last modified: January 24, 2023

Did not attend policy

An appointment is classed as ‘Did Not Attend’ (or DNA) when a patient fails to attend or does not cancel/rearrange an appointment with sufficient notice for it to be reallocated. This causes frustration for both staff and patients and is a waste of resources. The effect is to increase waiting times for appointments with doctors […]

Last modified: January 12, 2023

How to synchronise your repeat prescriptions

What is synchronisation? The aim is to order all the medication you have on repeat at the same time rather than different times throughout the month. Why synchronise? It saves time for you, your doctor and your pharmacist. Medication is less likely to be wasted and you are more likely to remember to take it. […]

Last modified: December 30, 2022

New patient repeat medication request

When you register with a new surgery, medications you had on “repeat” at any previous surgery do not automatically carry over to our surgery. This is for safety reasons. Our doctors ultimately take responsibility for any prescription we issue, even if the course was initiated by a doctor elsewhere, so we like to make sure […]

Last modified: March 5, 2024

22-23 COVID and Flu Vaccines

We are now delivering this year’s COVID and Flu vaccines. This year we intend to give everyone their COVID and Flu vaccination at the same time. There is overwhelming evidence this is safe and effective. Our doctors had their vaccines at the same time last year and intend to do the same this year. When […]

Last modified: November 11, 2022

Suspected UTI

Many Community Pharmacies are now able to give antibiotics for suspected urinary tract infections on the NHS. The service is available to people who are: Female Aged 16-64 Currently having symptoms suggestive of a possible urinary tract infection (e.g. pain on passing urine, urinating more frequently than usual, having to rush to go and urinate, […]

Last modified: July 29, 2022

Cauda Equina Syndrome Warning Signs

Many patients have a combination of back pain, leg pain, leg numbness and weakness. These symptoms can be distressing for you but don’t necessarily require emergency medical attention. However, a rare but serious back condition, Cauda Equina Syndrome, can lead to permanent damage or disability if not treated quickly. If you have the condition you […]

Last modified: July 26, 2022

ADHD Treatment at Claypath: What You Need to Know

Introduction If you have ADHD or suspect you might, this summary outlines how Claypath Medical Practice will work with you and other healthcare specialists to provide the best care possible. We are committed to offering the best possible care for our patients with ADHD. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to […]

Last modified: March 5, 2024

Green Inhalers

Thank you for showing an interest in changing to a low-carbon inhaler.  If you agree to proceed, we will change your inhaler to the Easyhaler brand. These inhalers look and work slightly differently to what you will be used to.  To use the inhaler, you first press the button to “activate it” and then take […]

Last modified: June 20, 2022

Have you tried contacting an NHS pharmacist?

Many conditions can be safely managed for free by an NHS pharmacy. They are usually able to offer help without an appointment, on the same day (including weekends), which is often faster than waiting for a GP appointment. The common conditions they are able to help with are listed below. Is your issue listed below? […]

Last modified: August 16, 2022

Travel Vaccinations

The practice provides an NHS vaccination service for routine scheduled vaccinations and a limited selection of vaccines needed for travel. Which vaccines do I need for travel? You can find out which vaccinations are necessary or recommended for the areas you’ll be visiting on these websites: Which vaccines do the practice offer? We can only […]

Last modified: January 12, 2023

COVID Vaccination Questions

When you attend your appointment for your COVID vaccine, you will be asked the below questions. To try and ensure we are as efficient as possible, it would help if you could read the questions ahead of time so you have a chance to prepare. If the answer to any of the questions is “Yes” […]

Last modified: January 18, 2022

Private Referrals

When we make a private referral from a GP to a specialist, there are additional steps for you to take as a patient.  Private Referral Process You ask the GP for a private referral and the GP agrees to make the referral. The GP will then dictate a letter that will be typed by the […]

Last modified: November 3, 2021

Urgent Appointment System

At Claypath & University, we are proud to be able to offer all patients who need help access to a clinician at the surgery.  In April 2019, before the pandemic, we provided 6,235 appointments. In April 2021, we provided 9,115 appointments – an increase of 46%. We are very much open and doing our best […]

Last modified: September 10, 2021

CCTV Policy

The practice uses CCTV at our sites. Attached is our policy for the use of CCTV.

Last modified: September 8, 2021

Update Your Details

Please download the form below and return it to us at the surgery to update your contact details.

Last modified: September 29, 2022

General Practice Extraction Service

Earlier this year we publicised the pending NHS Digital GP Data for Planning and Research (GPDfPR) GP record data extraction and your ability to opt-out. The programme was scheduled for launch in July and then delayed until September. It has now been delayed indefinitely.  Concerns were raised by patients and GPs about potential problems with […]

Last modified: July 21, 2021

Can different COVID vaccines be used for first and second doses?

The following advice is extracted from the 20 May 2021 NHS England publication: The recommendation is that the same vaccine is given in the second dose as the first. If a different second vaccine is considered, a detailed informed consent process is to be followed. It may be appropriate to give a different second vaccine […]

Last modified: May 22, 2021

Proof of COVID Vaccination

NHS COVID Pass If you require proof for travel, you can download the free NHS app. From the 17th May 2021, you will be able to display evidence of vaccination within the app. If you require a paper copy, you must telephone 119. The practice dose not provide evidence of COVID Vaccination status. International Vaccinations […]

Last modified: May 9, 2022

Steroid Emergency Card – Patient Guide

Why do I need a steroid card? You have been advised to carry the NHS Steroid Emergency Card as you are taking long-term steroid treatment. It is important that any healthcare professional who treats you knows you are on long-term steroids. You should not stop suddenly taking your steroid treatment, as you may feel very […]

Last modified: July 12, 2022

Registration Forms

NHS Registration Form You will need to complete an NHS (GMS1) Registration Form for each member of your household when you register in person. Copies are available from the Surgery and on this website. Download the NHS (GMS1) Registration Form (all new patients) Personal History Form As it takes a while for your medical records […]

Last modified: December 1, 2022

Practice Boundary

The Practice provides general medical services for the Durham City population. Our practice boundary includes the following areas: – Gilesgate– Belmont– Carrville– Sherburn Village– Merryoaks– Nevilles Cross– Framwellgate Moor– Pity Me– Shincliffe– Durham City Centre To register as a new patient with the practice patients must reside within the defined practice boundary. If unsure, please […]

Last modified: January 22, 2024

Household Contacts and COVID Vaccination

The JCVI have advised that household contacts of people who are immunosuppressed are eligible for the COVID Vaccination. To clarify the situation, these are the definitions that guide who qualifies: Who is a household contact? The JCVI defines a contact as: “individuals who expect to share living accommodation on most days ……. and therefore for […]

Last modified: April 7, 2021

Claypath and University Primary Care Network Podiatry Service

Our Primary Care Network has an established podiatry service (run by Mr John Cottrell) at its University Health Centre site each Monday and Wednesday to enable practice patients to have timely access to podiatry following the onset of a foot problem. Timely access has been proven to reduce problems persisting for a long time or […]

Last modified: November 9, 2023

Could you help with a research study about Type 2 diabetes?

Research in Newcastle has shown that Type 2 diabetes can be reversed to normal. Professor Roy Taylor’s team is now testing whether this is also possible for non-obese people with type 2 diabetes. We are looking for people with Type 2 diabetes of less than 6 years duration for a 1 year research study. Individuals […]

Last modified: March 25, 2021

Germ Defence Study

We are letting you know about a very useful website called Germ Defence which was created by a team of doctors and scientists to give you advice that has been proven to reduce the spread of viruses in the home. It can help you plan how to protect yourself and members of your family from […]

Last modified: March 10, 2021

Registering as an Unpaid Carer

We encourage all patients who act as the sole or primary carer for a family member or friend in an unpaid capacity to register as a carer to be entitled to support. If we know you are a carer we can: support you with any physical health issues related to your caring role make you […]

Last modified: March 2, 2021

COVID Vaccine Scams

We are aware that people are being sent unsolicited text messages and emails related to the COVID vaccine as part of scams. We are sending text invites to patients as well as phoning people. Our text messages look like the image below. If the message is legitimate, it will never ask for: Credit card details […]

Last modified: January 26, 2021

Covid Vaccination

COVID and Flu Vaccines Autumn 2023  The practice will be delivering both COVID and Flu Vaccines together from 11th September 2023. Please feel free to call reception and book in from now. New clinics will be added each week up until December 15th at both sites.  Broadly speaking those eligible include;  ● All NHS and […]

Last modified: September 7, 2023

ADHD Screening

To establish a diagnosis of ADHD in an adult, a comprehensive assessment by a psychiatrist needs to be made. In order to ensure that we refer patients who need assessment, we would like you to complete a screening questionnaire. Please complete the questionnaires below and return them to the doctor as requested. Our ADHD prescribing […]

Last modified: June 27, 2022

Starting or Changing Contraception

To start or change contraception you will need an appointment with one of our nurses or doctors. This can be by telephone in most cases. It is helpful before your appointment to read information about different types of contraception, which can be found on the NHS website.

Last modified: March 4, 2021

Contraception

The NHS provides free access to contraception for all patients. NHS Community Pharmacy Contraceptive Service Many local community pharmacies now provide contraceptive services, including both initiation and maintenance of existing contraceptive methods. Some pharmacies offer walk-in services as well as appointments, providing additional capacity for these needs. Before contacting our surgery for contraception requests, we […]

Last modified: February 1, 2024

Request Repeat Contraception

The easiest way to renew your contraception is by sending an eConsult. One of our nurses will get back to you in response. You may still need to come to the surgery though if we need to do some measurements that you cannot provide remotely (e.g. blood pressure). Note: this service is closed at weekends […]

Last modified: October 6, 2020

Drug and Alcohol Support

In Durham, treatment for drug and alcohol problems is provided by the Durham drug and alcohol recovery service. Patients can self refer to the service by visiting their website or contacting the phone number below. The service is free of charge. 03000 266 666

Last modified: May 13, 2021

Stop Smoking Service

Stopping smoking is really hard, but makes a huge difference to your health and finances. County Durham has an excellent Smoking Cessation service that can help you quit. They are able to arrange medication and other support to help you stop for good.

Last modified: September 11, 2020

Book a COVID Test

COVID tests are provided by the national NHS Track and Trace service. They are only provided in very specific circumstances as outlined on their website. Private lateral flow tests Private lateral flow tests can be purchased from most pharmacies. Superdrug’s Online Doctor provides a service where you can order lateral flows that arrive within 2 […]

Last modified: December 13, 2022

Something went wrong

There was an error with your form submission. Please try again. If you continue to get an error, please contact Reception.

Last modified: September 9, 2020

Thank you

Thank you for your form submission. The information will be processed in the next 48 hours.

Last modified: September 9, 2020

Posted in Uncategorised

Flu Vaccination 2021

Having a Flu vaccine is especially important in 2021 to protect yourself and others and reduce the risk from coronavirus. How to book Who can have a free NHS vaccine? The following people are eligible for a NHS flu vaccine, those who are: are 50 years old or over Living in a care home 2-3 Year […]

Last modified: December 16, 2021

Accessibility Statement for Claypath & University Medical Group

This accessibility statement applies to the practice website you are currently browsing. This website is run by Claypath Medical Practice. We want as many people as possible to be able to use this website. For example, that means you should be able to: change colours, contrast levels and fonts (through browser extensions or third party software) […]

Last modified: August 25, 2022

General Medical Report Request

Please send an eConsult to request a medical report and we will get back to you by the end of the next working day to advise on the next steps you need to take specific to your request. 

Last modified: August 5, 2020

Isolation Note Prior to Procedure

If you have been asked to isolate (shield) prior to a procedure or operation, you will need to provide your employer with evidence. This does not need to be from your doctor. You can print the form below and complete it and this is sufficient evidence.

Last modified: July 30, 2020

SMS Text Message Policy

Summary Claypath and University Medical Group uses a service called AccuRx Chain SMS to send text messages to patients for a range of purposes including recall, care plans, patient information and delivering test results. We assume that as a patient, if you provide your mobile number, you give implied consent for the surgery to use […]

Last modified: July 28, 2020

Mental Health – Other Support Services

Rape and Sexual Assault – ‘The Meadows’ Advice, support and counselling for victims of sexual assault. Services include sexual health screening and forensic examinations if required. This service is available even if you do not feel able to report the crime to the police. The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre aims to provide a sensitive, […]

Last modified: February 1, 2024

Mental Health Online Self Help

The following websites can provide helpful advice on improving mental health conditions: Self Help Leaflets from Northumberland NHS Trust Recovery College Online – Online educational courses and resources to people with experience of mental illness

Last modified: July 26, 2020

Talking and Psychological Therapies

Talking therapies are an important part in the treatment of mental health problems. You can self-refer to these services without seeing a doctor if you choose. However, if you are looking for advice on a diagnosis, or would like to discuss medication, you will need to speak to a doctor at the surgery. If you […]

Last modified: May 23, 2023

Mental Health Crisis Support

If you are feeling in crisis with your mental health, please contact any of the following options: Durham Mental Health Crisis Team: 0800 046 1313 | 0300 0200317 If you are known to Secondary Care Mental Health Services contact your CPN during normal working hours or the Crisis Team thereafter. NHS Listening Service: 0800 046 1313 […]

Last modified: January 25, 2024

Cookie Policy

What are cookies? Cookies are files saved on your phone, tablet or computer when you visit a website. They store information about how you use the website, such as the pages you visit. Cookies are not viruses or computer programs. They are very small so do not take up much space. How we use cookies […]

Last modified: October 14, 2020

Update Your Details

At present, updating your details can only be done by directly contacting our reception team.

Last modified: July 10, 2020

Test Results

Was the test arranged directly by a doctor in the practice?

Last modified: July 1, 2020

Test Results from the Practice

If we have arranged the test, we will contact you if there are any serious abnormalities. You can get your test results directly from the NHS app and we advise all our patients to check there first. I still have questions after checking the NHS app We are happy to answer questions about your test […]

Last modified: July 1, 2020

Test Results from Hospitals

Test results from hospitals are usually sent directly in the post to a patient and the GP at the same time. If you have not been sent the result, it is unlikely the practice has access to the results. To enquire about the result please contact the hospital directly and ask to speak to the […]

Last modified: July 1, 2020

New Referral Request

All new referral requests (NHS and private) need to be reviewed by a doctor. To request a referral, please submit an eConsult and we will get back to you by the end of the next working day.

Last modified: July 1, 2020

Enquiries For Pre-Existing Referrals

Our secretarial team handle the referrals in the practice and will be happy to help answer your questions. The button above will only work on a mobile phone. If you are on a desktop or tablet you will need to dial the number 0191 374 6896.

Last modified: July 1, 2020

Request a Medical Report

The practice provides private medical reports where appropriate to registered patients. Medical reports are not an NHS service and therefore fees apply to these reports. The Non-NHS Fees page on our website details the current charges.

Last modified: August 5, 2020

Request a Sicknote

How long have you been unwell and off work (including bank holidays and weekends)?

Last modified: July 28, 2020

Sick Note – After 7 Days of Absence

Once you have been absent from work for more than 7 days due to illness, your employer will request that you provide a “sick note” (Med 3 Form) signed by a doctor. The form can be signed by any doctor providing your care, including hospital doctors. If you need a “sick note” from the practice, […]

Last modified: July 1, 2020

Sick note – First 7 Days of Illness

If you have been absent from work for less than 7 days, you do not need a sick note from a doctor. Sick notes from doctors are only issued if you have been off work more than 7 days. If you have been off more than 4 days, you may be entitled to Statutory Sick […]

Last modified: July 1, 2020

Cancel an Appointment

Thank you for looking you cancel your appointment, this will allow it to be made available to someone else. Please telephone the surgery to cancel the appointment.

Last modified: July 10, 2020

Arrange a Medication Reivew

Our practice pharmacists can help most people with a medication review and where needed, they will ask you to consult with one of the doctors. To arrange your medication review, please contact the surgery on the telephone.

Last modified: August 30, 2023

Request Prescription Not on Repeat

As the medication is not on your repeat prescription, you will be unable to request it through the NHS App. Please send an eConsult to the surgery and someone will be in touch by the end of the next working day (often sooner) to help you get your medication.

Last modified: July 1, 2020

Request Repeat Prescription

As your medication is on repeat, you can use the NHS App to send a request for the surgery to send the prescription to your preferred (nominated) chemist. You can register for the NHS app online and you do not need to come to the surgery at any point in the process. Alternatively, request repeat […]

Last modified: April 11, 2023

Request Medication

Is this medication on your “Repeat Prescription” or for Contraception? What does “on repeat prescription” mean? When you need medication on a regular basis, where appropriate, your doctor will arrange a “Repeat Prescription” that allows you to request the medication from the practice directly without needing to see anyone.

Last modified: January 23, 2024

Doctor or Nurse Practitioner Appointments

The fastest way to have a doctor or nurse practitioner to send an eConsult. Our clinical team will review your submission and advise on the best approach to get help. If you need an appointment we will either arrange it for you, or send you a “self-book” link. If you have a more complex request […]

Last modified: August 30, 2023

Coronavirus Antibody Test

What is an antibody test?  An antibody test can tell someone whether they have had the virus that causes Covid-19 in the past, by analysing a blood sample.   What do antibody test results mean?   A positive antibody test demonstrates that someone has developed antibodies to the virus. The presence of antibodies signals that the body […]

Last modified: June 26, 2020

Stop Smoking Service

The latest information for the stop smoking service in Durham.

Last modified: August 5, 2020

GLAD: Genetic Links to Anxiety and Depression Study

NIHR: BioResource. An exciting opportunity to get involved in the largest ever study of anxiety and depression! What is the GLAD Study? The GLAD Study is a project set up to explore risk factors in individuals who have experienced depression and/or anxiety, including those with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, OCD, or related disorders, at […]

Last modified: June 9, 2020

Urgent “Two-Week Referral” – Patient Information

What does it mean to be urgently referred? An urgent two-week referral usually means that you will be offered an appointment with a hospital specialist within 2 weeks of your General Practitioner (GP) making the referral. If you do not get a call within 2 weeks please contact the Trust by telephone 01207 523641 or […]

Last modified: July 3, 2023