At a recent meeting of the Reading Health and Wellbeing Board we learned that expanded local treatment of lymphoedema was being considered. Lymphoedema is a painful and progressive condition in which the limbs (often the legs) become swollen after the body's lymphatic system is compromised. This condition is sometimes a consequence of treatment for cancer. Up to now only those patients whose conditions are associated with cancer have been offered treatment locally. Such treatment is offered at the Duchess of Kent Hospice in Liebenrood Road..

The NHS has a screening programme for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA). AAA is a condition found predominantly in older men where the wall of the main artery to the trunk and lower body is weakened and in extreme cases can fail. Under the NHS AAA screening programme men are offered screening in the year that they are 65 years old. Older men who have not been screened can self refer by calling 01865 572636. The screening is by ultrasound, takes only a few minutes and is painless.

We will be meeting between 6.15pm and 7:45pm on Wednesday, 28th January 2015 in the Reading Community Learning Centre 10, Eaton Place, RG1 7LP (see Agenda for directions) . There will be a talk and discussion led by Karla Vickers of Reading Borough Council on the implementation of the Care Act 2014 in Reading, as well as news and discussion about health care locally.

We will be meeting between 6.15pm and 7:45pm on Wednesday, 28th January 2015 in the Reading Community Learning Centre 10, Eaton Place, RG1 7LP (see Agenda for directions) . There will be a talk and discussion led by Karla Vickers of Reading Borough Council on the implementation of the Care Act 2014 in Reading, as well as news and discussion about health care locally.

The Care Quality Commission, quality regulator for the NHS, has placed Priory Avenue surgery, a Caversham practice part of the North and West NHS CCG, in special measures after judging it inadequate on a number of counts. The practice has been given an inadequate rating and must produce and execute a plan to remedy its failings. GP services are under pressure nationally and especially in the Thames valley. Here, the high cost of living and accommodation, makes the area expensive for training or newly-qualified doctors.