The Dorset General Practice Alliance have launched a survey asking people in the county how confident they feel about managing their own health, when to self-treat illnesses and the type of information people find useful.
The Alliance, which represents all general practice surgeries in the county, will use this information to help surgeries better understand the support patients need for feeling well and knowing what to do with minor illnesses.
The survey goes live today, Monday 18 November 2024, which is also the start of National Self Care Week, an awareness week organised by the Self Care Forum. This year, the week focuses on promoting ‘Mind and Body’ self care for ‘communities, families and generations’.
Ian Gall, Patient and Public Lead at the Alliance said, “We want people to know what to do when they feel unwell. This might be managing symptoms of a minor illness at home, coping with a long-term health condition or generally wanting to feel healthier in everyday life.
“This survey will help general practice surgeries get a sense of what their population needs in the way of support and help them focus their efforts on the right things.
“We would be grateful if local people could complete our short, confidential survey. It should only take about five minutes. All answers are anonymous, and you could help to make a positive difference to healthcare services.”
People will have until 18 January 2025 to give their views to the Alliance.
To find out more and complete the short survey, visit www.dorsetgpalliance.co.uk/news/selfcare.