February 2026 Newsletter

 

BACK TO MAIN INDEX

 

As we move through 2026, we’re excited to share several important updates about our services, new team members, and ways you can stay involved in shaping local healthcare.

 

Total Triage Launching: Monday 13 April 2026

From 13th April 2026, Old School Surgery will launch Total Triage, a core part of the NHS Modern General Practice model. This means every patient request (online, by phone or at the desk) will be assessed by our clinical team so you are directed to the right care, first time.

Total triage helps ensure:

  • Urgent problems are dealt with quickly
  • Routine issues are booked appropriately
  • Long-term conditions receive continuity
  • Patients aren’t waiting unnecessarily for the wrong type of appointment

This system also frees GP time for patients who truly need a doctor, while allowing our wider team (nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, mental health practitioners and more) to support you efficiently.

 

Anima Workshops: Learn How It Works

To help everyone feel confident using the new system, we’re hosting two Anima Workshop Days. Patients can drop in to try the system, ask questions, and meet our team. Dates and location will be displayed on our website and in reception once these have been confirmed.

 

Pharmacy First: Quick Access to Care Without a GP Appointment

The NHS Pharmacy First service allows you to get treatment for several common conditions directly from a community pharmacist, often on the same day.

Conditions pharmacists can now treat:

  • Sore throat
  • Ear infections
  • Sinusitis
  • Infected insect bites
  • Shingles
  • Impetigo
  • Urinary tract infections (for eligible patients)

How to access Pharmacy First

  1. Walk into a participating pharmacy
  2. Call ahead to check availability
  3. Use NHS 111 online, which may direct you to Pharmacy First
  4. Ask reception, our team can guide you to the right local pharmacy

Pharmacists can assess you, provide treatment, or refer you back to a GP if needed.

 

Vaccinations: New 2026 Schedule

From January 2026, the UK introduced an updated national vaccination schedule. Staying vaccinated remains one of the safest, most effective ways to protect yourself and your family from serious illness.

If you’re unsure whether your child, or you, are up to date, please contact our nursing team. NHS vaccination guidance is available via the NHS website

 

Local Health Updates: Cranbrook and West Kent

We continue to see seasonal respiratory conditions in our community. Please seek help early if symptoms worsen, especially for children, older adults, and those with long term conditions. Consider using NHS 111 for advice outside surgery hours.

 

Dispensary Improvements

We now send text messages when your medicines are ready. If you’re not receiving updates, please check your NHS App or confirm your contact details with reception.

 

Appointment Use: Last Month

  • Appointments offered: 2,479
  • Attended: 2,378
  • DNA (Did Not Attend): 101

Thank you for helping us keep missed appointments to a minimum.

 

Welcome to Our New Team Members

A warm welcome to Penny, our new Dispenser, and Julie, joining our Reception team.

We’re also delighted to officially welcome Dr Liu, who has been with us for over two months and is already a valued part of our clinical team.

 

Stay Connected and Get Involved

Follow our updates on Facebook, and consider joining our Patient Participation Group (PPG), your voice helps shape local healthcare.

Our next PPG meeting will occur in April and to get more info, please email our new chair Kim Fletcher using our secure online form

Published: Feb 9, 2026