Practice updates

Managing Chronic Diseases at Our GP Practice

What Is a Chronic Disease?


A chronic disease is a long-term health condition that usually cannot be cured but can be managed to help you stay well. Common chronic conditions include:

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Heart disease
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma
  • Kidney disease
  • Arthritis
  • Mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety


How We Support Patients


Our GP practice provides ongoing care to help manage chronic diseases and prevent complications. This includes:

  • Regular monitoring: Blood pressure checks, blood tests, and other routine investigations
  • Medication management: Prescribing and reviewing medications to ensure they’re effective and safe
  • Care plans: Personalised plans outlining treatment, lifestyle advice, and review schedules
  • Referrals: To specialist services such as dietitians, physiotherapists, podiatry, or hospital clinics
  • Support and education: Helping you understand and manage your condition day-to-day
  • Health checks: Annual reviews and condition-specific clinics (e.g. for diabetes or COPD)


What You Can Do to Stay Well


You play a key role in managing your chronic condition. Here’s are steps you can take:

  1. Attend regular appointments – Don’t skip your check-ups or reviews.
  2. Take your medication as prescribed – Don’t stop or change medications without speaking to your GP.
  3. Monitor your health at home – If advised, check your blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, or other indicators.
  4. Adopt a healthy lifestyle:
    - Eat a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight
    - Stay active with regular exercise
    - Reduce alcohol and avoid smoking
    - Take care of your mental health
  5. Watch for warning signs – Let us know about any new or worsening symptoms.
  6. Keep records – Bring your medication list and any recent test results to your appointments.
  7. Ask questions – Understanding your condition helps you make better decisions about your care.


Self-Care and Resources


There are also local and online tools to help you manage your condition:

  • Online patient portals – Book appointments, request prescriptions, and view test results through patient portals.
  • Community support – Join local support groups for diabetes, heart disease, COPD and more.
  • Lifestyle programs – Access weight management, smoking cessation, and exercise programs via NHS or community services.


Remember:


Managing a chronic disease is a team effort. By working together with your GP and healthcare team, following your care plan, and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can:

  • Reduce the risk of complications
  • Improve your quality of life
  • Stay well and independent for longer