Do you look after an adult or child who is ill, frail, disabled, has mental health problems, or misuses drugs or alcohol? 

We are currently working in partnership with Carers in Hertfordshire to offer support to patients of any age who have caring responsibilities. We want to identify people registered at this practice who are carers. Sometimes 'hidden' carers are looking after a family member or helping a friend or neighbour with day to day tasks and may not see themselves as a carer.

If you are a carer this is an opportunity to let the practice know so that we can update our records. Please ask for a Carer Identification form in the waiting room and hand in tio reception.

Those who are self-isolating because they are symptomatic or have a symptomatic household contact

Patients who are self-isolating because they or someone in their household has COVID-19 symptoms can get their own certificate using the online NHS 111 isolation note tool.  Patients do not need to speak to a GP unless their symptoms are worsening and they need clinical advice. If a patient does not have an email address, they can have the note sent to a trusted family member or friend, or directly to their employer. The service can also be used to generate an isolation note on behalf of someone else.

Those in the stringent social distancing group (vulnerable but not shielded)

The patients can download and use the template letter as they will not be eligible for a MED3, which is for certifying due to illness.

Those in the shielded group (deemed extremely clinically vulnerable)

This group should receive a letter from the government (or their GP/specialist if not identified through the central process) confirming they are in the shielded category which can be used for the purposes of certification off work. The CMO has provided a specific list of qualifying conditions that would be classified as defining a patient as extremely medically vulnerable. This means they should self-isolate within the home and only leave on clinical advice.

Isolation notes and letters for COVID-19 related absence from school

There have been reports that as schools re-open, they may request medical certificates on fitness to return, and some parents may also seek advice from their GP about whether it is safe for their child to return.

Practices are unable to make judgements on individual children’s suitability to return to school. NHS has produced a template letter to provide to parents which summarises the RCPCH guidance on guiding principles for children returning to school. The full guidance can be found on the RCPCH website.

The rules regarding isolation for children who are symptomatic or who have a symptomatic household member apply as above and parents can get an isolation note from the 111 service.