Many people care for loved ones or relatives at home and might not realise that it’s important to tell your GP If you find yourself in this situation. GPs can provide support and advice if they know you are a carer.
We are working to encourage everyone who is caring for a loved one or relative in Hampshire to let their GP know of their situation, so they can get the best help and support possible.
Watch our interview with Hampshire GP Tim Cooper as he talks about how your GP can help if you are a carer:
Here are 10 reasons why you should tell your GP you are a carer
Your GP will complete a carer registration form and make sure your medical records reflect that you have caring responsibilities. This means that all healthcare professionals will have access to this information when required and will know that you are a carer.
They can then ensure you get your free flu vaccine as well as offering flexibility around appointment times as well as having an agreement with you to share information about the person you care for.
It’s important to take care of your own health and becoming a carer can be a very stressful situation so if your GP understands, they will be better placed to help and support you with your own health issues.
Your GP can offer you advice and support on how to provide the best care for the person you are looking after and can help to make sure you are giving them the best possible support at home.
They can connect you with other helpful organisations and refer you to other services which might be able to provide support and advice for your particular situation, such as the Continence Service, or social services.
They can refer you for support if they think your health is suffering as a result of your caring responsibilities.
Provide you with information and medical advice about the health condition of the person you are caring for, condition, to help you feel more knowledgeable.
Arrange home visits for you if you are unable to leave your loved one to attend appointments and help with repeat prescriptions
Arrange double appointments with you and the person you are caring for, rather than having to go to the surgery twice.
Offer mental health checks and other regular health checks for you and your loved one to make sure everything is going well.
We have also spoken to carer Ian Penfold, who is a member of the Hampshire Carers Partnership Board, about all the positive ways his GP has helped him in his caring role. You can watch his video here: