We routinely invite patients with a chronic disease in for Chronic Disease Management (CDM) appointments. Our aim is to help you to manage your condition and any related medication you are on to help prevent deterioration.
There are a variety of conditions that fall under Chronic Disease, including:
- Respiratory conditions, such as Asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Cardiovascular conditions, such as Hypertension, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD), Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and Heart Failure
- Diabetes
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
- Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attacks (TIAs)
Many patients appear under multiple disease registers, some of which are related. In this case you may require slightly longer appointments so that everything can be addressed.
We often see CDM patients once a year, however depending on the severity of your condition this may be more or less. For non-respiratory conditions, you will typically have two appointments. The first is at the surgery with a Healthcare Assistant (HCA) for blood tests and physical health monitoring; the second is with a Nurse to review your test results.
Healthcare Assistant Appointment
The HCA will carry out a range of tests and check to monitor your condition. These may include:
- Blood tests
- Blood pressure
- Pulse
- Urine test – please bring a urine sample from the day of your appointment
- BMI (height and weight)
- Diabetic foot check
Nurse Review
The nurse review may involve discussing results of any tests you have recently had, any medications you may be on and any general health advice relating to your condition. This gives you the chance to raise any concerns you may be having regarding your chronic disease.
These appointments can be in the surgery or via telephone, however some conditions e.g. respiratory need to be seen face to face where reasonably possible.
