Countryside on prescription: Court Thorn Surgery in Cumbria
Court Thorn GP surgery in Cumbria covers a catchment area of more than 350 square miles. It's on a fast road through rolling countryside, and serves a rural population, many of whom are farmers or work on the land. Court Thorn patientIt was great to get out, chat and enjoy the fresh air and see the beautiful Cumbrian fells. When you are feeling down, you can forget they are there.
GP Dr Ken Sutton says 'the people around here are generally very healthy - they only come in when they need to'. But the beautiful surroundings can also be very isolating, especially for those without cars. The surgery's innovations have harnessed the existing community spirit to bring people together and help them to work collectively for better health.
Court Thorn began offering exercise on prescription years before similar national schemes took off. There are two one-hourly sessions of aerobic exercise each week, led by a properly qualified instructor in the village hall. All patients who want to attend are assessed by staff to make sure they are suitable for the courses. Even on a wet November day, these classes attract a big crowd, jjiving to the 'Spirit in the Sky' while outside the rain pours.
Court Thorn patientI tried Bowen technique and found it very relaxing and my back felt great. Over the weeks, I found I was sleeping better as well
The surgery has begun a pilot scheme to offer free Bowen technique sessions. Patients report a range of effects - some feel more relaxed - others say their conditions have almost completely cleared.
The surgery has a pragmatic approach to chronic illness, recognising that many patients who would usually be referred to a local hospital can't make it there without great expense and difficulty. To avoid the long trip, diabetic patients can attend a one-stop shop at the surgery to check their blood sugar, weight and if necessary speak to a dietician. For those who do need the hospital, there's a volunteer car service. Here, patients who can drive will take others to the nearest hospital in exchange for a nominal payment. Court Thorn's a great example of what a GP surgery can achieve when it is plugged into the local community. Drawing on the skills and generosity of its own patients, it has shrugged off some of the limitations of the NHS structure, and helped people to choose their own solutions.
