News from Dr Laybourn and Partners, East Leeds

Thank you

We’re delighted to share some wonderful feedback from our patients. Many have praised our GPs for being caring, approachable and truly listening to their concerns, with particular recognition for the time taken to explain diagnoses and treatment options clearly. Patients have told us how much they value the consistency, professionalism and dedication shown by our doctors, often describing them as going above and beyond in their care. Our nursing team has also received lovely feedback for their attentive and supportive care, and we’re pleased that our new booking system is being described as quick and easy to use. We’re incredibly proud of our whole team and grateful to our patients for their kind words and continued trust.

Pharmacists

As part of our triage process, our GPs may signpost suitable patients to a local Pharmacy service. This helps patients access timely care closer to home and ensures GP appointments are available for more complex or urgent health needs.

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows patients to receive assessment, advice and, where appropriate, NHS treatment for a range of common minor illnesses directly from a community pharmacist, without needing to see a GP first.

Community pharmacists are highly trained clinicians who can safely assess symptoms, provide self-care advice, and supply NHS treatment (including prescription-only medicines where appropriate) for certain conditions.

Conditions that can be treated under Pharmacy First include:
• Sore throat
• Earache
• Sinusitis
• Infected insect bites
• Impetigo
• Shingles
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (in women aged 16–64)

Pharmacies also routinely advise and support patients with a wide range of minor illnesses and ailments, such as coughs, colds, hay fever, stomach upsets, skin conditions and minor pain

Happy New Year from all of us at Dr Laybourn and Partners

January Health Update – Healthy Eating for the New Year

January is often a time when people reflect on their health and consider making positive changes. One of the most effective ways to support both physical and mental wellbeing is through healthy eating, focusing on small, sustainable changes rather than restrictive diets.

The NHS recommends aiming for a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Drinking enough water and reducing foods high in sugar, salt, and saturated fat can help improve energy levels, support weight management, and reduce the risk of long-term health conditions.

The NHS Live Well website offers reliable, practical guidance on healthy eating, including advice on portion sizes, meal planning, and understanding food labels. These resources are suitable for individuals and families and can be particularly helpful if you are managing a long-term condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure.

You may find the following NHS resources helpful:

• Healthy eating advice:
  https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/

• The Eatwell Guide:
  https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/the-eatwell-guide/

• Tips for a balanced diet:
  https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/how-to-eat-a-balanced-diet/

At Dr Laybourn and Partners, our clinical team can offer advice on healthy lifestyle choices as part of routine reviews and long-term condition appointments, as well as local services you can access within East Leeds.

Making gradual, realistic changes can help lay the foundations for a healthier year ahead.

SystmConnect

From the 1^st October 2025 the government changed our appointments system to a total triage system called SystmConnect. To book an appointment, all you have to is just send a request and get on with your day. Our GPs will assess your symptoms and direct you to the most appropriate clinician or service.

Find out more and answers to frequently asked questions.

Self Referral and Patient Information

Do you really need a GP referral? Services are changing and many are now self referral, which is often quicker. Services including physiotherapy, mental health support, midwife care, social care and sexual health do not need a GP referral. There are also many charitable support agencies and self-help resources available.

Refer yourself here

Winter 25/26 Newsletter

Read our winter newsletter.