This section is just for teenagers or young adults and is full of information you’d like to know but might be afraid to ask.
Confidentiality
Do you need to talk to someone?
Are you worried about something?
Did you know that you can talk to our clinicians in complete confidence?
You can request an appointment at any age without your parents or carer knowing, although if you’re under 16 you do need to be mature enough to make any decisions that may be required.
Our receptionists understand you may not want to tell them any details but please ask if you would prefer to see either a male or female clinician.
We cannot tell anyone without your consent and our computer records are all confidential.
- You can pop in or call the surgery to book an appointment
- You can ask for a telephone appointment and the doctor will call you back, even on a mobile.
- Pick up one of our leaflets for more details
How to make your appointment and how to handle it
- To make your appointment please telephone reception on 01491 843250 or come into the surgery and ask at the counter.
- You can request an appointment at any age without your parents or carer knowing, but if you are under 16 we need to be happy that you are sufficiently mature to make any decisions that may be required.
- Our receptionists will book you in with the clinician best suited to deal with your needs; doctor or nurse, male or female. In order to do this they will ask the nature of your problem. If you’d rather not say, that’s fine, but everything you do tell them is strictly confidential.
- If you would prefer to see a male or female clinician please let the receptionist know when you make your appointment.
- During your consultation be honest and do not be frightened to tell them anything. They are here to help you, not judge you. The more information you can give them the better.
- You may wish to make some notes before you attend — write down all of the questions you want to ask so that you do not forget.
- Make some notes during the consultation as you can easily forget what you have been told. You can also bring someone with you to support and listen.
- If you do not understand what you are being told during the consultation then please say; it is important that you understand everything. Ask the clinician to explain things again if you need to. They won’t mind as they will want to make sure you understand fully.
What you might like to know
Registration
You must be registered with the Bell Surgery to access our services. Your parents or carers will probably have already done this for you. Just ask if you’re not sure. You can register for just contraception advice if that is all you need.
Who can you see?
You can make an appointment to see a doctor or one of our nurses. We have male and female doctors and female nurses. The nurses can diagnose and issue prescriptions for minor problems, or can ask a doctor to see you if needed, so you can see them for any health related issue.
We don’t tell anyone
Your visit is private and what you tell the clinician is strictly confidential. They will make notes on our computer system against your records but only staff who need to will access them and they can’t tell anyone without your consent.
Bring someone with you
You might like to bring a friend or relative into the consultation with you, for support or a second ‘pair of ears’. In some situations a formal chaperone may be needed to sit in and this will be one of the trained members of staff.
If you don’t want to come in
We can offer a telephone appointment. The receptionists will make a note of your phone number (which can be a mobile) and a doctor will call you at a particular time which suits you.
Information link
We have lots of information on our website with links to other helpful sources.
Common health problems affecting young people
Acne & Skin Problems — This is a common problem for teenagers and young people. Make an appointment with one of our doctors or nurses and they may be able to help.
Alcohol and Drugs — If you have concerns about misuse our clinicians can offer support and will not judge you. Make an appointment with a doctor. www.talktofrank.com and www.drinkaware.co.uk are good sources of information.
Bullying, Loneliness and Stress — Please do not suffer in silence, we are here to listen. Our doctors can provide support and advice if you are feeling low or depressed. We would recommend you make an appointment with a GP in the first instance.
Cancer— If you are worried about cancer, either that you might have it or you’re concerned about someone who has, make an appointment to talk to about it with your doctor or nurse.
Chlamydia Testing — If you are sexually active and under 25 you should test annually. It is easily treated but if left undetected can cause serious problems, even infertility. Many people suffer no symptoms at all. You can find more information on how to order a free home test kit here .
Contraception — Before you start any form of contraception (except condoms) you will need to see a nurse or doctor. They will provide you with information and advice on the options available to you. Don’t leave it too late to have this conversation.
Diet and Eating Disorders — If you are concerned about your weight or your relationship with food or exercise, please make an appointment with a nurse or doctor who can advise on healthy eating and sensible exercise plans.
Family & Relationship Problems — If you are worried or upset and need someone to talk to, our doctors are here to listen and provide help.
Pregnancy — If you think you are pregnant you should make an appointment with one of our nurses or doctors who will listen to any concerns and discuss your options. We have a community midwife and Health Visitor attached to the practice to ensure that pregnant women have support from pregnancy through childbirth and beyond.
Periods – Don’t suffer in silence. If you have painful or troublesome periods, please make an appointment with a nurse or doctor and they may be able to help. If you would prefer to see a female clinician, please ask reception when you book your appointment.
Puberty — If you have any concerns, please speak in confidence to one of our nurses or doctors.
Sexual Health — If you think you have a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STI) you should immediately make an appointment with a nurse or doctor.
Smoking — If you smoke you are putting your health at serious risk and probably smell pretty bad too. For smoking cessation services contact Solutions4Health on 0118 334 1861 or by email [email protected]
Referrals
In some situations, the doctor or nurse may wish to refer you to see a specialist or another support organisation. This is done in agreement with you and is entirely for your benefit.