Meningitis B

We understand that parents and patients may be concerned about the cases of Meningitis B among students at University of Kent and people who attended Club Chemistry in Canterbury. There is more information on the government website. We are getting a number of queries at the surgery about accessing the Meningitis B vaccine, as an NHS GP surgery we are only able to offer this to infants aged under 2 years old. If you would like to get the vaccine and are older than this you would need to attend a private clinic.

MMRV Vaccination

From 1 January 2026, the MMRV (Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Chicken Pox) vaccine will be introduced into the routine childhood immunisation schedule in the UK. When your child will be offered this vaccine depends on their date of birth. Find out more here: What is the MMRV vaccine and is my child eligible?  – UK Health Security Agency

Please only book an appointment for your child after checking when they will be eligible on the NHS schedule, we are not allowed to give the vaccine to patients who are not in the eligibility cohort.

Pharmacy First Advanced Scheme

The NHS has made it easier to get help for a number of common medical conditions. Your local pharmacy can provide treatment for 7 common illnesses without needing to see a GP. Find out more here.

Direct Access to Physiotherapy

You can now see a local 'First Contact Physiotherapist' directly for any musculoskeletal issue without speaking to a GP for a referral. Please call our reception team to make a booking.

HRT Prepayment Certificate

If you are prescribed HRT medication you may be able to save money with the new HRT Prepayment Certificate. Find out more here.

Self Referrals

The NHS is under significant pressure. Instead of waiting for a routine GP appointment, please check if you can self-refer to other local specialist services.

Musculoskeletal Self Help App

Patients at Elm Lodge have access to getUbetter, a self help app for musculoskeletal conditions. Find out more here.