Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions
In Clinic COVID-19 Services

Scroll down or use the quick links below to find what your are looking for.

Self Service

If you wish you to amend the date or time of your appointment, you may do so through the unique link found on your email confirmation. If you wish to amend the type of test or location, please get in touch with our dedicated Customer Service Team and one of our agents will assist you with your request.

Yes, however we do have a limit of up to three times maximum.

You can cancel your appointment through the unique link found on your email confirmation. Once requested, the refund will be processed and appear in your account within 7-10 working days. Please be aware and remind yourself of our Cancellation Policy before moving forward.

 

Please understand that appointment times are limited and in high demand. When you book your appointment with us, you are holding a space on our calendar that is no longer available to our other customers. However, if you must cancel your appointment, we respectfully request at least 48 hours’ notice in order to allow another customer access to that appointment time.

The “ON HOLD” option for appointments allows customers to place their appointments on hold up to 12 months free of charge. However, the original appointment date is still subject to the cancellation policy if then requested to be cancelled.

  • – Cancelling an appointment 48 hours or more in advance entitles you to a 100% refund with a deduction of £10 administration fee.
  • – Cancelling an appointment between 48 and 24 hours before entitles you to a 50% refund with a deduction of £10 administration fee.
  • – Cancellations made within 24 hours will not receive a refund.

Please Note – £10 administration fee is per appointment, not per booking.

If customers wish to downgrade their appointment/test type, there will be an £10 admin fee.

 

To note – you will not be able to reschedule or cancel your appointment via this link if you attempt to do so within 48 hours prior to your appointment. If you wish to reschedule or cancel within the stated timeframe, please contact our Customer Service Team.

Please allow 7-10 working days for the requested refund amount to appear in your account. If this does not appear in your account within the stated timeframe, please contact our Customer Service Team and they will be able to assist you. 

Upon update of your result, you should receive an email alert, of which will include your results certificate as an attachment. The sender will be DAM Health relative and appear uniquely to the clinic that you attended. If this does not appear in your main inbox within the results policy timeframe, please also check your junk or spam folder.  

You can book a new appointment online through our website. All you need to do is select the service you require, select the location you wish to visit, and the date and time you would like to attend. Once the booking form is completed and payment taken, you will then receive an email confirmation with the necessary details. 

The results certificate will include your personal details (full name, date of birth, address, passport number) that you input upon booking. In addition, it will include the date and time your test was taken, your determined result, detailed information of our Healthcare Facility and the signature of our Medical Director.  

This varies as dependent on the service you have purchased. Please see appropriate listings below:

PCR Testing:

– Results within 48 hours

– Results within 24 hours

– Results by Midnight

– Results within 3 hours

Lateral Flow Antigen Testing – Results within 2 hours

Antibody Testing – Results within 2 hours

Firstly, please ensure that you have also checked your junk or spam folder in your inbox as, on occasion, new sender emails can be directed there. If you believe your results have not been received within the chosen timeframe, please contact us via our contact us page ->  https://www.dam-health.com/contact-us/

Please contact us via our contact us page -> https://www.dam-health.com/contact-us/

Our Services

There are several reasons why you may need a COVID-19 test, this can vary from travel requirements, employer requests or medical reasons. At DAM Health, we can offer Fit to Fly certifications, as well as Fit to Work certifications – of which, if deemed eligible by your medical constitution, can be used for your medical reasons also. 

Pre-departure testing, in relation to COVID-19, is the test required prior to travelling to and entering another country. It is important to be aware that different countries have different entry requirements and, therefore, be sure you are scheduling the appropriate test type and within the required timeframe.  

Also called a molecular test, this COVID-19 test detects genetic material of the virus using a lab technique called reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

A lateral flow test, is an assay also known as a lateral flow device, lateral flow immunochromatographic assay, or rapid test. 

A COVID-19 antibody test detects previous infection of COVID-19. If you have previously had a COVID-19 infection, your immune system may have produced antibodies to fight the infection. Our DAM Health antibody test specifically identifies how many antibodies (IgG & IgM) you have produced and currently have in your system. This is identified via a capillary blood sample – also known as a finger prick blood sample.

Various countries have different travel entry requirements. Depending which country you are travelling to, it will determine whether or not you require a COVID-19 test and which type of COVID-19 test you need. 

At present, the UK does require any pre-travel testing to visit as per government guidelines.

Different countries may have different definitions for what fully vaccinated specifically means. The proof of vaccination for a British citizen is valid for 270 days after their last dose of the primary vaccination series. Receiving a booster vaccination extends the validity of proof of vaccination, there has not yet been a new end date set. To note – the most recent vaccination is recognised in an individual’s vaccination status following 14 days before travel. 

Yes, we offer both Fit to Fly and Fit to Work services and certifications. 

Testing & Clinics

PCR Testing:

Sensitivity – 97%

Specificity – 100% 

 

Lateral Flow Antigen Testing:

Sensitivity – 94.39%

Specificity – 100%

Accuracy – 97.47%  

 

Antibody Testing:

Sensitivity – IgG: 97.02%

IgM: 87.09% 

Specificity – IgM: 100%

COVID-19 vaccines will not cause you to test positive on your COVID-19 PCR and Antigen testing and will not affect your result in any other way. For Antibody testing, there is the possibility this can contribute to your final result of IgG and IgM antibodies detected, however this cannot be confirmed and you will be requested to provide your vaccination status upon discussion at appointment with the medical professional.

For our COVID-19 PCR and Antigen testing, our medical professionals offer nasal and oral (nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal) swabbing. For our Antibody testing, a capillary blood sample is taken, also known as a finger prick blood sample. 

1. Visit the DAM Health website to select the desired location and COVID-19 Test service.

2. Complete all the required fields within the booking form and follow payment instructions.

3. Receive your email confirmation with the unique details for your chosen appointment. 

4. Attend and be welcomed by our dedicated team for your appointment at the desired location, date and time.

5. Have your chosen test performed by one of our medical professionals. 

6. Depending on the test service you have chosen, results are established either in clinic or at our labs.

7. Upon completion and identification of results, you will receive your results via via email either within 2 hours for Lateral Flow Antigen Testing and Antibody Testing or by midnight, within 3 hours, within 24 hours or within 48 hours for PCR Testing.

Prices

We offer Fit to Fly (including specifically for China) and Fit to Work testing, as well as symptomatic testing. These services are offered with result turnaround options of results within 3 hours, within 24 hours, results by midnight and within 48 hours.

Fit-To-Fly PCR Test – Adult

Results within 24 Hours £49

Results By Midnight £69

 

Fit-To-Fly PCR Test – Child

Results within 24 Hours £39

Results By Midnight £59

 

Fit-To-Fly PCR Test – Adult & Child

Results within 24 Hours £69

Results By Midnight £89

The price of our antibody test is £49.

Depending on the chosen service, you can find below the fitting turnaround of results:

 

Fit to Fly PCR Testing:

Results by midnight

Results within 24 hours

 

Lateral Flow Antigen Testing:

Results within 2 hours

 

Antibody Testing: 

Results within 2 hours

Group Bookings

Upon choosing your desired service and location, you will be presented with a selection of availability. Depending on the availability of the clinic, you may create a group booking and select appointments to suit the family to attend at the same time. 

DAM Health offer two options for large groups:

 

1. Similarly to family bookings, upon choosing your desired service and location, you will be presented with a selection of availability. Depending on the availability of the clinic, you may create a group booking and select appointments to suit all individuals within the group to attend at the same time. 

 

2. If the first option is not suitable, please contact our Customer Service Team who can advise further on what DAM Health can offer for larger groups. Kindly, please provide the following information if this is the route you wish to take:

 

– Group or Company Name

– Contact Number 

– Number of Individuals

– Location Request

– Reason for Testing

Please contact our Customer Service Team who can advise further on what DAM Health can offer for larger groups and our Private Testing team will be in touch shortly. Kindly, please provide the following information:

– Group or Company Name

– Contact Number 

– Number of Individuals

– Location Request

– Reason for Testing

Location & Opening Hours

We have a selection of clinics across the country. You can find the list of our locations here: https://dam-health.com/test-centres/

The opening hours for our clinics vary. You can find the opening hours for each clinic by selecting the clinic here: https://dam-health.com/test-centres/

The availability for each location is dependent on the number of bookings scheduled for each day. You can view the availability for your desired day and clinic following the selection of the location and service, from here the appointment booking page will appear and you can view which appointments are available. 

Frequently Asked Questions
In Clinic Treatments, Services & Health Tests

Scroll down or use the quick links below to find what your are looking for.

Vitamin Injections

Vitamins are essential micronutrients required in trace quantities for normal growth and development and to ensure normal body functioning.

Essential nutrients cannot be synthesised by the body in sufficient quantities and must be taken in via a healthy diet. Their impact on the body’s health is critical and deficiencies of these micronutrients can have severe and even life-threatening effects on the body.  

There are several reasons as to why you would need or why you would want an injection of a specific vitamin. The method of injecting vitamins is one of the more effective ways in which people are able to reverse or prevent deficiencies; the reason being is that by injecting substance, it allows for absorption directly in to the individual’s tissues.

The vitamins are injected using a fine needle, usually into the muscle at the top of the arm. As with any injection, it can sting and cause a slight burning sensation when it is administered. It can also causesome discomfort and throbbing in the area for a few hours or days afterwards.
If the injection is very painful, you should inform your treating practitioner.

Yes, it is a commonly used worldwide, any concerns discuss with your practitioner, the risks are very low.

If any of the following apply to you:


– If you are under the age of 18 years.
– If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
– Previous allergy to hydroxocobalamin.
– If you have kidney problems or previously low potassium levels.
– If you have other deficiencies such as folic acid or iron.
– If you have any blood disorders.
– If you have a severe needle phobia.

“Avoid taking anti-inflammatories (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen) for 3 days prior to treatment (unless this has been prescribed by your doctor) as this increases the risk of bruising.

Alcohol, fish oils, St. John’s Wort, Gingko Biloba, garlic and Vitamin E should also be avoided for 3 days prior to treatment to lessen the risk of bruising.

If you are unwell on the day of your appointment, contact the practitioner to reschedule.

Ensure your practitioner is informed if there are any changes in your medical history or medication taken before receiving any treatment.

If you have never previously had a Vitamin injection, it is important to allow 15 minutes for observation. It is important to be honest about your medical history, and any medication taken, so that you can have a safe and effective treatment.”

This to allow time for you to recover and for the practitioner to ensure that you do not have a reaction to the injection. You will be advised about the steps to take for if you are to develop any unexpected side effects following treatment – of which includes the importance of contacting your practitioner as soon as possible who may be able to offer advice or corrective treatment.

After treatment, most people can resume their normal daily activities. Immediately after treatment, there may be some discomfort, redness, and minor swelling at the injection site, which should settle in time. If you develop any bruising, which may be apparent at the time of treatment, it is usually minor and settles within a few days. Occasionally, more significant bruising can occur. Rarely, you may develop a headache after treatment which can last a few days. Simple analgesia can be taken for this if needed.

 

Many practitioners advise the following:
– Try to avoid touching or rubbing the area of injection.
– Avoid heavy exercise and over-use of the injected muscle for 24 hours.
– If you develop any diarrhoea, ensure you maintain good hydration by increasing fluid intake.
– Contact your practitioner if you experience any unwanted side-effects.

Yes, our DAM Health clinicians who conduct the appointments for this service and administer the treatment are fully qualified and highly experienced with the procedures and care for customers.

Prior to treatment, you should complete a medical history with your practitioner, you should also receive all the relevant information you need to make an informed decision about whether to go ahead with treatment or not, as well as possible side effects specific to your treatment and costs involved.
Before treatment, you should be given the opportunity to have any further questions answered and sign a consent form, either printed or electronically produced. The practitioner will examine the treatment area to determine the most appropriate injection sites and dosage required for optimum results.
The area for injection will most likely be at the top of your arm into the muscle, it is usual to use the non-dominant arm. The area will be inspected to find the best place for the injection. Some practitioners may disinfect the skin prior to injection, but this is not a requirement. The skin will be gently pinched prior to treatment and the actual injection can cause a stinging or burning sensation that can vary in intensity. Some people find that it is quite painful, whereas most just experience a mild stinging. The actual injection will last for a few seconds only.
Following the procedure, your skin may be cleaned again, or gentle pressure applied if there has been some bleeding at the site.
You will be asked to remain for 15 minutes after your injection to allow time for you to recover and for the practitioner to ensure that you do not have a reaction to the injection. If you are due to have a series of injections, you will then be able to schedule your next appointment.

Vitamin D

Getting enough vitamin D is crucial for healthy bones and teeth, deficiency in children can lead to a condition called rickets, where the bones are weak, and then soften, which leads to bone deformity (with bowlegs). In adults, even low levels of vitamin D can increase your risk of osteoporosis, or thinning of the bones. This along with our ageing process in the decline of bone-protective hormones can increase the risk of breaking a bone.

 

But vitamin D is important for much more than bone health. Vitamin D may play a role in:
– Improving muscle strength
– Keeping your immune system strong, helping to fight off infections
– Protecting you against certain cancers
– Reducing your risk of falls
– Helping to stave off depression and low mood
– Keeping your energy levels up

“Vitamin D is sometimes known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’: The natural type of vitamin D is produced in your skin when you’re exposed to sunlight, and we should get 80% of our Vitamin requirement this way.

 

However, in the UK, sunshine isn’t strong enough to allow you to make your own vitamin D, especially in the winter. So it’s now recommended that everyone over 1-year-old take 10 micrograms (400 International Units) a day from October to March.

 

Certain groups of people are at higher risk of low vitamin D, and will require all year-round replacement:
– are pregnant or breastfeeding
– are aged 1-4 years
– are over 65 (older adults are less efficient at producing vitamin D)
– have little exposure to sunlight because you could be housebound/confined indoors for long periods, or cover your skin for cultural reasons.
– have darker skin, because your body is not able to make as much vitamin D from sunlight.
– there are certain medical conditions that your GP or specialist services may recommend that you take a replacement all year round (i.e. certain gut (bowel), kidney or liver diseases). “

Vitamin D comes from sunlight and even for fair skin and winter months we should still be outside enough. The sunlight must fall directly on to bare skin (through a window is not enough). Too much exposure to the sun’s rays can be damaging (i.e. sunburn can increase the risk of skin cancer).

You can also get some Vitamin D from foods that either contain it naturally or have it added to them.

Or take replacement therapy.

Many people have no vitamin D deficiency symptoms or may experience vague symptoms such as tiredness or general aches, due to this Vitamin D deficiency is often missed. The diagnosis is more easily recognised in severe deficiency with some of the classical (typical) symptoms and bone deformities.

 

Vitamin D deficiency symptoms in adults may also include:

– General tiredness, vague aches and pains, and a general sense of not being well.

– In more severe deficiency (known as osteomalacia), there may be more severe pain and weakness in bones and muscles (the latter is noticed when experiencing difficulty in climbing stairs or getting up from the floor or a low chair or having a waddling gait when walking.

– Bones can be painful to moderate pressure often more noticeable in the ribs or shin bones, but it is not uncommon for people to have a hairline fracture in the bone which is causing tenderness and pain. Other areas that bone pain often occurs is the lower back, hips, pelvis, thighs, and feet.

This can occur for various reasons:

 

People who get very little sunlight on their skin are at risk of vitamin D deficiency. This is more of a problem in the more northerly parts of the world (including the UK) where there is less sun. In particular:

 

– People who stay inside a lot. For example, those in hospital for a long time, or housebound people.

– People who cover up a lot of their body when outside.

– The strict use of sunscreen may increase the risk of vitamin D deficiency, particularly if high sun protection factor (SPF) creams (factor 15 or above) are used. However, there is no evidence that the normal use of sunscreen does cause vitamin D deficiency in real life. Everyone, should always be protected from the harmful effect of the sun’s rays. 

 

Additionally, it can affect the following individuals:

 

– Elderly people are unable to produce as much vitamin D. This leaves older people more at risk of vitamin D deficiency.

– People who have darker skin are not able to make as much vitamin D.

– Some medical conditions can affect the way the body handles vitamin D. People with Crohn’s disease, coeliac disease, and some types of liver and kidney disease, are all at risk of vitamin D deficiency.

– Rarely, some people without any other risk factors or diseases become deficient in vitamin D. It is not clear why this occurs. It may be due to a subtle metabolic problem in the way vitamin D is made or absorbed. So, even some otherwise healthy, fair-skinned people who get enough sun exposure can become deficient in vitamin D.

– Vitamin D deficiency can also occur in people taking certain medicines, i.e. carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone, barbiturates and some anti-HIV medicines.

A lack of vitamin D is very common. One survey in the UK showed that about 1 in 5 adults and about 1 in 5 children in the UK have low vitamin D levels. More people have low vitamin D levels in the winter and spring because of less exposure to sunlight.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C Injections deliver pure vitamin C directly into the bloodstream via an intramuscular (IM) injection. Regular Vitamin C Injections can enhance physical wellbeing and prevent the onset of illness, this is because vitamin C is a natural antioxidant that protects the body against the effects of harmful agents.

This could include:

– Swollen and bleeding gums

– Poor wound healing

– Loose teeth

– Fatigue

– Joint pain

– Coloured spots on the skin

Key Points:

Absorbed better than oral supplements
Reduces fatigue
Improves the look and quality of the skin
Gentler on sensitive stomachs
Boosts the immune system
Gives you more energy

 

Further Explanation:


Vitamin C has numerous health and wellness benefits and should be an important part of any diet.

 

Vitamin C is said to help prevent you from catching a cold, in reality this is not the case, but studies have found that Vitamin C does help you fight a cold, and also helps in preventing serious complications that can be connected with the common cold.

 

Stress is a familiar enemy for most of us. Sometimes work, family, and other commitments can lead to feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. Vitamin C will not necessarily make you less stressed but will help your body remain healthy even under extreme duress by keeping your immune system strong even during times of stress.

 

A recent study found that Vitamin C lowers the risk of having a Stroke, though the findings are not published, but still an intriguing possible benefit of Vitamin C.

 

Other benefits linked with Vitamin C replacement is healthier and younger, looking skin. High dosages of Vitamin C have been found to lead to a lower likelihood of dry skin and wrinkles and in general those with a high amount of Vitamin C have better more youthful skin.

 

Vitamin C(Ascorbic acid) is a powerful antioxidant, that is needed for your body tissue to survive and thrive. It is also a very powerful antioxidant that can protect your body from harmful free radicals. Free radicals can lead to cancer, heart disease and arthritis, so in essence Vitamin C can help prevent these.

 

Vitamin C is available in food, though their effects will not be as strong as when receiving a Vitamin C injection.

For treating vitamin C deficiency, the typical vitamin C injection dose is 200 mg once daily for up to a week, then periodically. If for wound healing, the typical vitamin C injection dose is 1 gram once daily for 5 to 21 days.

Doses may be given daily or periodically at different intervals, this will be dependent on the consultation.

Vitamin C injections are completely safe, the most common side effects are pain and swelling at the injection site, in rare cases people may feel slightly nauseous.

If you’re thinking about getting high doses of vitamin C through injection, talk with your practitioner about the potential risks.

Vitamin C increases iron absorption from the food you eat. If you take very high doses of vitamin C, your body might absorb too much iron. This could be a potential problem if you already have high levels of iron in your body.

If you have kidney disease, very high doses of vitamin C might result in kidney damage.

High-dose vitamin C injections might increase your chance of developing a kidney stone. People who’ve had kidney stones in the past may have a greater risk.

When any injection is given, there is also risk for infection.

Vitamin C can interact with some other medications. However, it is important to be aware of the following:

Vitamin C can make your urine more acidic. In some cases, this can change how your body gets rid of certain medications.

This in turn can change levels of some medications in your body and result in decreased effectiveness or increased side effects.

Some of these medications include:
– fluphenazine (Prolixin)
– magnesium salicylate (Novasal)
– mexiletine (Mexitil)
– salsalate


There is some concern that high-dose vitamin C might make radiation therapy and some chemotherapy drugs less effective. However, this is controversial, and more evidence is required.
If you’re taking other medications or being treated for cancer, talk with your practitioner before taking high-dose vitamin C injections.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is one of the water-soluble vitamins and available as an intramuscular injectable medication called Hydroxocobalamin. Vitamin B12 is required to help your body to use fat and carbohydrate for energy and it also helps to make protein and DNA. It is an essential vitamin to help maintain blood, nerve cellsand neurological function. These vitamins are soluble in water and some of these are not easily stored within the body, requiring a constant source from the diet.
Liver, fish, meat, eggs, dairy products, yeast extract (such as marmite) and foods that have been fortified with B12. Although there are different medications of Vitamin B12, the World Health Organisation recommendsthe use of hydroxocobalamin as it remains in the body longer than other formulations, which means less treatments over time. Injected B12 begins to work immediately, but it can take days or weeks to feel the benefit.

“Vitamin B12 deficiency is relatively common, and the main causes of deficiency include:

 

– Pernicious anaemia (a medical condition where your own immune system attacks healthy cells in the stomach, preventing the absorption of Vitamin B12)
– Vegan and Vegetarian diets
– Episodes of extreme dieting or a poor diet over a long time
– People taking certain medications, including metformin, anti-convulsants, and antacids
– Previous bowel surgery or medical conditions affecting the bowel
– Increasing age
– Risk factors also include smoking and alcohol excess”

Various symptoms have been linked to Vitamin B12 deficiency, some of which affect the following:

 

– Brain Function
– Osteoporosis (brittle bones)
– Depression
– Energy, Weight Loss and Mood
– Extreme tiredness
– Lethargy
– Feeling faint
– Paraesthesia (pins and needles)
– Sore tongue
– Mouth ulcers
– Muscle weakness
– Visual disturbances
– Mobility problems
– Confusion
– Poor memory
– Lack of judgement
– Depression”

The absorption of Vitamin B12 from the diet begins within the mouth, where proteins within the saliva attach to the vitamin to prevent it from being destroyed by the acid in the stomach. Specialised cells (parietal cells) within the stomach produce a substance called intrinsic factor, which binds to Vitamin B12 enabling it to be absorbed within the small intestines. Once it enters the blood stream, it can be reabsorbed along with bile to be stored for a long time in the liver (60%) or within muscle (30%) until it is required. Anything that interferes with this process can lead to low levels of Vitamin B12 within the body.

You should not have B12 injections if:

 

– You have an allergy to hydroxocobalamin or any of its ingredients.

– You have low potassium levels or medication that may reduce your potassium.

– You have other deficiencies, including folic acid or iron.

– You have a blood disorder.”

Generally, side effects are uncommon, often mild, and usually resolve within a few days of treatment. You may experience some pain, itching, redness or swelling at the injection site. This will usually settle quite quickly without any intervention, however, if you experience any prolonged side effects, it is important to contact your practitioner/GP for a review. Bruising is uncommon, but if it does occur, it may take up to 2 weeks to fully resolve.


We do not recommend that treatments are performed in a non-clinical environment. Possible Side Effects include:
– Injection site pain
– Bleeding and/or bruising at the injection site
– Redness, itching, and irritation at the injection site
– Nausea and vomiting
– Diarrhoea
– Headaches
– Dizziness
– Hot flushes


If vomiting and diarrhoea are more severe, this can affect the oral contraceptive pill and additional precautions will be required.


Rarely, adverse effects can be serious and include:
– Serious palpitations due to low potassium levels
– Anaphylaxis (serious and life-threatening allergy)


Signs and symptoms of a serious allergy may include a rash, wheezing, difficulty in breathing, tight chest or throat, trouble speaking and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue and/or throat. If you experience any of these, you must ring 999 immediately.

Vitamin B12 injections may be administered every 6 to 12 weeks. Your practitioner will record the batch number, expiry, and site of injection on your treatment record and will provide you with appropriate verbal and/or written aftercare.

Most people are suitable for Vitamin B12 injections, although it is recommended that you have your B12, folate, iron and potassium levels checked prior to commencing treatment. If you have very low levels of B12, this should be investigated further by your General Practitioner.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy, also known as cold therapy, is a procedure that involves using extremely cold liquid or an instrument (titled cryoprobe/cryopen) in which abnormal tissue is identified, deemed eligible for treatment, and frozen and destroyed. The substances used to cool a cryoprobe include liquid nitrogen, liquid nitrous oxide or compressed argon gas. 

This treatment can be effective on the following:- Warts
– Verrucas
– Moles – (GP referral required)
– Skin tags
– Skin Lesions
– Xanthelasma
– Milia
– Pigmentation / Sun damage
– Seborrheic Keratosis (Warts/Spots from skin aging)
– Cherry Angiomas

 

Important to note – a consultation to assess the abnormal tissue that you wish to be removed is required. During this consultation, the medical clinician will deem the eligibility for treatment.

By exposing areas of your body to extremely cold temperatures, for a period of up to 2 minutes, your skin will instinctively trigger a reaction. At DAM Health, our cryotherapy service is offered through the use of cryogen treatment. This pen-like instrument releases highly pressurised liquid nitrous oxide at a freezing temperature of below -27 deg C. It is used with unique targetting on the identified skin lesions and the precision of the pen ensures that only the abnormal skin area is destroyed. 

After your appointment, the area of your skin that has been treated by the medical clinician has the possibility of:

– looking red

– swollen 

– cold

– sting

– itch

– blister

Our dedicated and experienced medical clinicians will explain the steps of aftercare during your appointment.

 

You can find additional information here:

– the area must not be touched

– be aware that the treated surface will go darker

– do not pick or irritate the treatment area

– if experiencing itching due to the body’s response to nitrous oxide, a histamine can be taken which should reduce irritation after approximately 10 minutes. 

– protect the area from sun exposure whilst it is healing – it is recommended to use SPF 50. This will help prevent scar formation. 

The healing process can take up to 28 days. However, dependent on the skin area that has been treated, this can take up to 6 weeks. 

It is recommended not to treat if you have the following conditions:

– hepatitis (specifically B and C)

– human T-Cell lymphotrophic virus 3 (HTLV3)

– compromised auto-immune system

– transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (e.g. CJD vCJD)

 

At DAM Health, we do not treat genital warts. 

Many of the common conditions individuals are treated for with cryotherapy can be completed in one session. However, dependent on the condition and the abnormal skin area that is being treated, this can be mean more than one session is required – of which, if required, our medical clinicians will explain to you prior to treatment and, upon agreeance, follow up appointments can be scheduled.

At DAM Health, we offer a free consultation for each new booking. Upon attendance of the appointment, discussion and eligibility identified, the cost of cryotherapy treatment for the requested skin area can be explained. 

The cost of the treatment varies depending on the size and severity of the condition. With this in mind, treatment can vary from £25 to £250. 

As each customer has a unique condition as to what they are desiring to be removed, this also means the medical clinician is required to make a unique decision upon what treatment plan is needed to destroy the skin lesion (includes decision upon period of cryopen use, amount of nitrous oxide use, and the number of sessions etc.). The various elements included in the treatment plan contribute to the pricing of the service. 

Each cryotherapy appointment upon booking is scheduled for 30 minutes. Within these 30 minutes, the medical clinician will have a discussion about the service, assess the skin area that is to be treated and, if eligible, physical cryotherapy treatment and relevant aftercare discussion. 

The cryotherapy treatment is a rapid process that includes physical contact with the cryopen to skin of between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. 

Yes, our DAM Health clinicians who conduct the appointments for this service and administer the treatment are fully qualified and highly experienced with the procedures and care for customers. 

You should contact your GP if you believe you have the following:

 

– a fever of 38 deg C or higher

 

– any of these symptoms at or around the treated area:

1. redness or swelling that extends to areas of untreated skin.

2. increasing pain or discomfort in the treated area.

3. a bad smell

4. increasing oozing or drainage from treated area (yellow or green)

5. skin the treated area that is hot or hard to touch

6. bleeding that does not stop after applying pressure

 

– chills (feeling cold and shivering)

 

– any problems or issues you did not expect to happen or see relative to the treated area.

Driver Medicals

Currently, we offer the following driver medicals for:

– Taxi drivers

– HGV drivers

– Bus drivers

– LGV drivers

– Ambulance drivers

– Motorhome drivers

We request that you bring the following items with you to your medical appointment:
– A physical, printed copy of your Medical Form (you can find your medical form online by visiting your Local Authority’s website and searching for ‘Taxi Licensing’).
– Photographic Identification.
– Your driving glasses/contact lenses and prescription if applicable.
– Details of any ongoing medical conditions plus any medication you are taking.
– Medical records as required.

This is dependent on the area you are based and/or applying for. Different regions have different medical forms that are required to be completed and submitted to the DVLA. You can find your medical form online by visiting your Local Authority’s website and searching for, for example, ‘Taxi Licensing’ or the relative title for what you are to be scheduled for. 

You can find further information and guidance around this here – https://www.gov.uk/guidance/general-information-assessing-fitness-to-drive

The medical examination itself takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. This excludes the time it takes for the medical professional to review your medical records.

The medical examination covers the following areas:

– Vision

– Cardiovascular

– Endocrine system

– Neurological

– Medical records as required.

– Psychiatric

To Note – We may not make a fitness decision during your medical as there may be additional checks and time required.

Possible reasonings include:

– If you have suffered from a previous medical condition related to your heart, in which case an Echocardiogram (ECG) may be required. 

– Local Authorities have adopted Group 2 guidelines but often do not have the facilities to deal with a follow up such as an ECG, you will be expected to arrange this yourself if it is deemed necessary.

If your test results are normal, the medical professional conducting your medical will provide a fitness certificate to confirm to the DVLA that you are fit to drive a private hire vehicle or hackney carriage. For further advice and guidance on assessing your fitness to drive please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/general-information-assessing-fitness-to-drive

If your test results are not normal, or if your test is unsuccessful, the medical professional conducting your medical is obliged to report to the DVLA that you do not fit the medical requirements.

Dependent on the medical reasons for your test results to be deemed not normal, the medical professional may advise for certain action to be taken and a revisit in the future for assessment again. 

For further advice and guidance on assessing your fitness to drive please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/general-information-assessing-fitness-to-drive

Your Local Authority, not the DVLA, decide who can carry out your medical. Therefore, we strongly advise customers to check first whether or not any General Practitioner can complete the medical examination for them. This is because most Local Authorities allow any GP to perform Driver Medicals where as others state that only the driver’s own General Practitioner may do so.

In addition, some Local Authorities require that the person conducting your medical has access to your medical records. This may need to be requested from your GP surgery in advance of your appointment.

Strep A

Strep A, also known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS), is a form of bacteria that can be develop and be noticed in the throat or on the skin, can live in or on your body. It can cause mild illnesses surrounding respiratory, skin and soft tissue issues; for example, skin infections and sore throats (Strep throat). 

Although Strep A can cause mild illnesses, it is important to be aware that sometimes it can be the cause of more serious illnesses, such as:

– Scarlet Fever

– Meningitis

– Pneumonia

– Septic Arthritis

Strep A is most common in younger individuals between the ages of 5 and 15. However, anyone of any age can be exposed to and get the illnesses it can cause. 

The more vulnerable individuals to Strep A include:

– Elderly people

– Children aged 5 – 15 years old

– Parents and people that are regularly in contact with children

– Those who have a suppressed or weaker immune system

Once an individual comes in contact with the Strep A bacteria, it can take 2 to 5 days for that individual to begin to show any symptoms. These symptoms can vary from mild to severe.

 

Common Symptoms:

– A sore throat (the throat can appear red that may have white patches on the tonsils)

– Chills

– Pain when swallowing

– Sudden fever (it is known to be at its highest of the second day of sickness)

– Swollen and tender neck glands

– Headache

– Stomach pains

– Possible vomiting and nausea

 

Other Symptoms:

– Loss of appetite

– Abnormal sense of taste

– Scarlet fever-like rash (beginning on the neck and chest, and potentially spreading over the body

– Symptoms of sinus infection or ear infection

Bacteria that belong to Group A are recognised as very contagious. It is known that those with Strep A can spread the infection to others until they have been on antibiotics for 24-48 hours. 

In addition, you can get Strep A infections more than once, so following prevention guidelines is highly recommended. 

The two most common ways in which Strep A is spread is via two routes:

1. through the close contact between individuals (via fluids from the nose or saliva)

2. through the contact of contaminated items (i.e. bedding and towels)

 

Other potential infection routes include:

– sharing and drinking from the same glass as someone who is infected

– eating from the same plate as someone who is infected

– having direct contact with skin sores

– eating contaminated food

There is a selection of ways in which the spread of Strep A can be prevented, which include:

– restricting contact with other individuals, meaning staying at home rather than attending school, daycare or work. 

– get a new toothbrush after 2 or 3 days (this will ensure you are not reinfecting yourself with the bacteria that could potentially be living on your toothbrush).

– regular and good quality hand hygiene is advised. Ensure the individual infected, other children and other family members wash their hands with soap for 20 seconds. Hand sanitiser can be used as an alternative option too if water is not available. 

– ensure any coughing and sneezing is directed and contained in to tissues, then throw these in the bin and wash your hands as soon as possible. If a tissue is unavailable, direct coughing and sneezing into your upper sleeve or elbow. 

– clean down communal surfaces before and after use.

– wash up and thoroughly clean glasses, plates and cutlery after use or someone else uses them

– avoid touching your face and others if your hands are not clean

Following testing positive for Strep A, it must be prescribed by a GP, but, commonly, certain antibiotics are given to treat the infection.

It is advised to stay at home while you are unwell with keeping hydrated and resting as required. 

If you have a sore throat, these tips may be of use:

– consume warm liquids, such as lemon and ginger tea, or tea with honey

– suck on throat lozenges or hard candies (not advised for young children as they is the risk of choking)

– gargle warm salt water several times a day 

Our DAM Health Strep A test is a rapid test whereby it is completed in just a few simple steps. 

Firstly, the health care clinician will request that the client being tested opens their mouth as wide as possible. They will examine the mouth and throat, and then, using a clean, soft cotton swab, they will carefully brush the swab end around the tonsils, over the back of the throat, and over any red or sore areas. This procedure collects the sample that is required for testing. 

Thanks to the specific extraction process of throat swab samples, a Group A streptococcus marker (LPS antigen) can be isolated and further identified using specific anti-LPS antigen antibodies. 

You will receive your results within 5 minutes time. 

Similarly to any test in a clinical setting, it is always encouraged to stay calm and as still as possible during the procedure, this further ensures the collection of a satisfactory sample for an accurate test. 

It is advised that no eating or drinking is undertaken at least 30 minutes before your appointment as this may affect test results.

If child has taken antibiotics recently, please let the clinician know of this as there is the possibility this may affect test results also.  

The risks with a Strep A test are very minimal, if to none at all. Strep A tests via throat swabing can be uncomfortable for individuals, but please be assured our clinicans will always work and strive to offer the most comfortable and ease of service for all customers. 

You can receive your results within 5 minutes. 

Frequently Asked Questions:
GP On-Demand

Scroll down or use the quick links below to find what your are looking for.

Booking a Consultation

One of our specially trained operators will answer your call, take some details and arrange a convenient time for a GP to call you back, or email you a link to join if you requested a video consultation.

Anything you would ask your own GP, for example, stomach issues, ears, nose and throat complaints, dermatological conditions, aches and pains and explanations or second opinions on diagnosis or treatment.

Most patients receive the advice, reassurance and, where appropriate, diagnosis they need from our doctors, however, if your symptoms require a physical examination, or a repeat prescription, you may be referred to your own GP. The service is not a replacement for your own GP.

Yes. Where possible, we will always try to accommodate a patient’s preference to speak to a male or female doctor.

No, you can contact the GP advice line as often as needed, there is no limit to phone, video or message consultations.

Dependants are eligible to use the GP advice line. Where a patient is under the age of 16, The patient/legal guardian must book the appointment on behalf of their dependant and must also attend the consultation.

You must not use the service for emergencies or urgent conditions as this may delay necessary treatment. If you believe that you are in an emergency or life-threatening situation you should contact your local emergency services immediately, especially if someone: − has difficulty or is not breathing − you believe someone is having a heart attack or stroke − has severe chest pain − has severe abdominal pain − has severe bleeding and it can’t be stopped − has lost consciousness − is in an acute confused state and/or is having fits which aren’t stopping You may still need to see your own GP or contact the emergency services if the clinician you speak with feels it is necessary.

If you require translation services for your GP consultation, ask your Customer Service Team Member at the point of booking. We offer a translator to join your consultation at no extra charge with more than 240 languages available.

You must be a resident and/or national of the United Kingdom, its Crown Dependencies or the Republic of Ireland to be eligible to use our services. By accessing and using our services, you are confirming that you are eligible.

Private Prescriptions

Where the GP believes it is clinically appropriate, they can issue private prescriptions. The medication can either be collected from a nominated pharmacy or delivered to a nominated address. Since these are private prescriptions, the pharmacy will charge for the medication. For delivery, there is a charge for postage and packaging. The online pharmacy will contact you directly to take payment.

In line with clinical best practice guidelines for remote prescribing, our GPs are unable to issue long term, repeat medication. Should you require repeat prescription medication, it is in your best interests to be seen by your regular GP. Our GPs can offer advice on medication you are taking and may be able to offer short course medication depending on the symptoms presented.

In the United Kingdom: If you are in the UK, we will endeavour to provide you with a GMC registered GP at the time of your consultation, and if they believe a prescription is in your best interests, we will ask you to nominate a local pharmacy to send the prescription to for fulfilment. Alternatively, you’ll be offered the choice to have the medication delivered to you in the United Kingdom. 

 

Inside the European Union: If you are in an EU country other than the Republic of Ireland at the time of your consultation, and the GP believes you would benefit from medication, they will explore alternative treatment options such as over the counter medicines from a local pharmacy as a first consideration. If over the counter medicines are not suitable and you are nearing the end of your stay, it may be more convenient to collect your medication from your local pharmacy on your return. If the duration of your stay abroad is longer, and at our sole discretion, we may offer to send you a digitally secure electronic ‘cross-border’ prescription for a nominated pharmacy. You must present this prescription to your nominated pharmacy, acting as the intermediary between us and them. Fulfilling an electronic prescription is at the sole discretion of the dispensing pharmacist you present it to, and we are not responsible for any refusal to dispense. Where a private prescription is issued, please be aware that we will have no knowledge or control over the pharmacy fulfilment charges. We are unable to electronically prescribe any controlled medications outside of Ireland or the UK. 

 

Outside the EU: Due to pharmaceutical laws and regulations we are unable to prescribe if you are outside of the EU, United Kingdom or its Crown Dependencies at the time of your consultation.

If the patient is in the UK or a Crown Dependency at the time of their consultation and are offered a prescription, then provided it is in stock and the prescription is raised before 4pm (UK time), it can be delivered to an address of their choice as soon as the next working day. Our pharmacy partner will contact them by telephone shortly after the consultation. A range of delivery speeds are available which they will discuss at the time. The total cost will depend on the destination and chosen delivery option. Next day delivery to a Crown Dependency cannot be guaranteed and may be affected by local customs regulations. Whilst the cost of medication varies, there is a minimum charge of £6.50 per item for postage. There is no P&P for collection of prescription medication at local pharmacies. Medication charges will vary between pharmacies.

It depends on the size and type of medication, but most smaller items are sent in cushioned, securely sealed packets. Packets or boxes are discrete with no markings.

Experienced, qualified, practising GPs – All HealthHero GPs are experienced practising doctors who, as in their NHS role, adhere to the GMC guidelines on remote prescribing. Checked by multiple, qualified physicians – The GP raises the prescription, it is then checked by a qualified pharmacist prior to being dispensed A full medical history is taken – During the call, the GPs takes a full medical history including any current medication and dosages, allergies, etc. This detail remains on the patient management system, including data relating to any medication prescribed by the HealthHero doctor, so in future consultations, doctors can see previous prescribing history. Consultation notes are sent to the patient’s own GP – When a prescription is issued, the consultation notes are sent to the patient’s own GP with patient consent. In the rare case that there is a safeguarding or emergency issue, patient data can be shared without consent.

Yes, our telephone consultation service provides 24/7 telephone access to a GP, and should the doctor feel it is necessary, they can remotely issue private prescription medication and open referrals.

Private Fit Notes and Referrals

If it is clinically appropriate and if the service is available to you, the clinician can issue a private fit note. HealthHero does not charge for issuing private fit notes, but you will need to check with your employer to confirm that they will accept one. Private fit notes cannot be used to access state funded sick pay or benefits.

Should the GP feel that you would benefit from seeing a consultant or specialist, they can provide you with an open private referral letter. This referral letter cannot be used to access NHS services in the UK. Referral letters can be posted or emailed directly according to your preference. If you have private medical insurance you will need to contact your insurer before engaging a consultant or specialist, or accessing any diagnostic or treatment services, unless you are self-funding. The referral letter is not a private medical insurance claims authorisation.

Our GPs and Quality Control

Our doctors are recruited via a rigorous two stage interview process with our Chief Medical Officer and HR vetting procedures, which ensure that GPs are qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable to an equivalent standard to your own GP. Our minimum criteria requires that our GPs: + are currently practising in the NHS as a GP and have at least 2 years’ experience + are on The GMC register + have a Bachelor of Medicine Degree, those who qualified after 2007 must be Members of the Royal College of GPs + are on the National Performers List for England + complete an annual NHS appraisal + have an enhanced DBS background check + provide complete document evidence that they are suitably qualified + provide at least 2 references to support their skills and experiences

Once recruited, the GPs are continuously monitored to ensure they maintain their skills to the highest standards. All our GPs complete an annual NHS appraisal to review their practise and performance. Our Quality Management System incorporates policies and procedures, consistent with best NHS practise, and each GP’s performance is continually audited. This auditing includes reviewing key documents to ensure all GP’s knowledge, skills and registration are up to date. We hold bi-annual doctor meetings with our clinical team to maintain good engagement, share best practice and help to continually raise our standards of care and service. In addition to ongoing internal auditing, our GPs’ clinical notes are also reviewed by an independent external organisation called Clinical Guardian.

Yes, our service is regulated by the Care Quality Commission for the delivery of medical services, in the “Digital Healthcare” category. Our most recent CQC inspection took place in June 2019. The inspection was conducted by a GP, Clinical Pharmacist and CQC Registered Inspector who provided an overall rating of “Good”.

The Care Quality Commission monitors, inspects and regulates hospitals, care homes, GP surgeries, dental practices, and other care services to make sure they meet fundamental standards of quality and safety. To get to the heart of patients’ experiences of care and treatment, CQC evaluates service providers across five categories relating to safety, effectiveness, caring, responsiveness to patient need and leadership.

Our GPs and Quality Control

All patient data and records are stored on our patient management system, in a secure data centre which is only accessible with multi-factor authentication by authorised personnel.

Yes. Patient confidentiality is very important, any records remain confidential. Our doctors follow clear guidelines about sharing clinical notes with the patient’s own GPs; when appropriate and with patient explicit consent, we send any relevant medical notes, including consultations notes for any prescriptions or referrals issued, to the patient’s own GP.

Clinical records are held in accordance with the NHS recommended retention periods for general practice and telemedicine records. In all cases, records are be maintained for a minimum of ten years.