Somerset talks men's health

In September/October 2002, the Somerset Health Panels talked men's health. The result was a fascinating series of discussions and recommendations that go way beyond Somerset. Meetings in the form of focus groups were held in Chard, Wincanton, Yeovil, Taunton, Wellington, Wiveliscombe, Frome, Street, Shepton Mallet, Burnham on Sea, Dulverton and Minehead and were very well attended. A total of 89 people took part.

Why won't men go to the doctors?

This was the central question of the discussion and resulted in the following recommendation:

A pilot project for selected GP surgeries in each PCT to assess the impact of opening hours and male only sessions accessible to working men.
For PCTs to consider the feasibility of transferable medical records between practices.

GP surgery staff to assess the suitability of their waiting rooms for men and to implement 'male-friendly- changes.

Information to be provided to patients by receptionists on the waiting time for patients as they arrive - particularly highlighting sessions which are running considerably late.

The consideration of provision of mobile screening clinics for men and clinics within a male environment.

Increased routine health checks for male patients.

A countywide publicity campaign to raise general awareness of men's health issues amongst the public, health professionals and voluntary agencies. Particular consideration should be given to local influences e.g. types of employment, environment, leisure.