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Practice news
A new system for GP appointments
September will see some positive changes in the way that we make GP appointments, with the introduction of Rapid Health Smart Triage. Triage is the process of deciding what treatment is appropriate for the medical problems and issues that we bring to the surgery. You may have experienced the long waits on the telephone to speak to a receptionist only to find that there are no appointments left.
The idea is that if you need to make an appointment with your GP, rather than telephoning, you access the practice website and click on the Rapid Health Smart Triage link. You will then be asked a series of questions (this will take about 3.5 minutes) at the end of which you will be guided to the next step, it may be an appointment with a GP but it may also be that your particular problem can be dealt with in another way. It is hoped that this system will result in a quicker response to your request, give priority to those with the greatest need, and for GPs to spend more time with their patients.
In order to access this system you will need to ensure that the practice has a record of your email address. Please be aware that the new system can be used if you have a new or existing health problem, for administration requests such as sick notes or accessing self-care advice. For anything else, or if you do not have email or access to a computer, you should telephone as usual where our team will assist you with your request. The system is expected to begin in mid-September.
It is vital for patients to use this service that Northgate Medical Practice have your correct email address; please check and update the surgery if it has changed.
COVID and flu vaccination winter campaign
The Sea Cadet Vaccination Site will reopen weekdays from 1 October 2026 until 30 October, book your appointment to protect yourself this winter.
Appointments at the Sea Cadets are now available to book directly through the National Booking System, a self-booking practice link or via the surgery. Eligible patients and those who are immunosuppressed will be contacted either by SMS, email or letter. Make sure we have your correct contact information - use our secure change of contact details form. You may also contact our surgery team after 2pm weekdays to book your vaccines. Limited walk-in appointments will also be available - bring your invite for proof of eligibility as it may also confirm eligibility for other vaccines such as RSV, shingles or pneumonia vaccinations if appropriate.
Do you have the NHS App?
The NHS App is a useful free app. You can download it from the NHS App website or search online for 'NHS App'. After downloading, set up a login with your email, phone number (mobile or landline), NHS number, and personal details. You can then access your health records and available services online. You can order repeat prescriptions, make appointments, book vaccinations, and access NHS 111 for advice and help.
PPG organised activities
PPG diabetes support group
In May we had another successful Diabetes Support Group meeting. Vicki White from Diabetes UK came and gave a talk about the work and support provided by Diabetes UK. The Diabetes UK helpline number is 0345 123 2399 or visit their website for other ways to contact them.
The next Diabetes Support Group meeting will be held at Northgate Medical Practice on Wednesday 9 September at 12.30pm. The guest speaker will be Claire Bode, who is the Exercise Referral Coordinator at Kingsmead Leisure Centre. Patients with diabetes or who are pre-diabetic are welcome to attend.
Walk and talk group
The group meets regularly on the first Thursday in the month, the next being 3 September. We meet at the surgery and walk at a gentle pace around Canterbury stopping for refreshment at some point It takes about 90 minutes and is very informal.
If you are interested in joining the Patients Participation Group please contact the chair, Alison Clarke.
Cake/bake sale
We are organising a Cake and Bake sale on Monday 28 September. Proceeds will go to support Macmillan Nurses. This event has been terrifically successful in the past so please support by popping in to buy something or contributing an item which can be sweet or savoury. The event takes place at the surgery from 8.30am to 12.30pm.
Published: Sep 7, 2026