Stargazing

Astronomers will be looking out for the Quadrantid meteor shower tomorrow night, which should reach its peak that evening, within 8 hours of the new moon.



The meteors can streak across any part of the sky, so you don't need to look in a particular direction to see them. The Moon is out of the way, so it should be a good show.


Many look to the stars for zodiac forecasts as the New Year begins, others state that they prefer to be more pragmatic ~ that the truth of an idea needs to be tested to prove its validity.


Thus Stockwell Lodge Medical Centre's formed its own Patient Forum whereby patients are able to participate in the transformation of its services under the auspice of GPs Consortia.


Stockwell Lodge Awareness Day was a great success, highlighting its own services and those operating within its' communities.  Having extended invitations to civic leaders and accepted the invitation to man the Balloon Release, I enjoyed a magical day meeting patients, the public, staff and community stalwarts on whom The Big Society depends.

The day also helped to clarify the mutual understanding of the constraints of limited resources across the country and our obligation to use such finite resources wisely.

Partners and Forum Members have together worked hard to transform Stockwell Lodge's services over the past year, having overhauled its appointment system, its new telephone system and practice website ~ these changes have enabled the medical centre to communicate more easily with its patients and also to better monitor its own performance.

Coupled with the new 'patient friendly' reception and Information Screens/Booklets, Extended Hours and Nurse Triage system, the customer experience has been much improved, although a 'doctor of choice' cannot always be guaranteed.

You are most welcome to offer your views via its Patient Survey available on reception or by calling 01992 624408 and requesting a copy.

LOCAL PEOPLE, LOCAL POWER, LOCAL POLITICS works, try it and see!