Connect magazine autumn 2025

AUTUMN 2025

PRACTICE PLUS GROUP

CONNECT

Dr Hilary Jones gives his new hip the thumbs up!

Virtual reality makes surgery a walk in the park Humphrey gets his feeling back WIN! £50 John Lewis crossword prize

Practice Plus Group Connect Magazine 1

Unlocking Access to Excellence.

At Practice Plus Group we believe everybody deserves access to outstanding healthcare.

In our hospitals and surgical centres, this means working with the NHS to treat as many NHS patients as possible and helping to reduce waiting lists.

It also means making private surgery more affordable and easier to access for those who choose to pay for themselves or use their health insurance.

Wellsoon from Practice Plus Group is a new kind of private healthcare that offers high quality surgery including hip and knee replacements, cataracts and hernia repair in just 4 to 6 weeks.

With straightforward access and no hidden costs, you could be back to your best sooner than you think.

CONTENTS 4 Our Ilford hospital trials virtual reality 5 Birmingham receives 1000th referral 6 Our bid to fill the trophy cabinet 7 Celebrating 20 years of Buckinghamshire diagnostics 8 TV’s Dr Hilary Jones travels 180 miles to have hip op at the hospital he opened 12 A day in the life of Sophie Everett, Paramedic Practitioner 15 Crossword competition

WELCOME to the autumn 2025 issue of Practice Plus Group’s Connect magazine, for our patients and colleagues.

In this issue we’re shining a spotlight on one of TV’s most trusted doctors – Dr Hilary Jones – who chose one of our hospitals for his recent hip replacement. We’re proud to share his story and the excellent care that helped him back on his feet.

You’ll also find news of our success in being shortlisted for prestigious national healthcare awards, recognising the skill and dedication of our teams across the country.

We’re delighted to bring you the inspiring story of Humphrey, who lost the feeling in his hand due to carpal tunnel syndrome but, following successful surgery with our Wellsoon private healthcare service, is now pumping iron at the gym and enjoying life with full strength and sensation again.

And finally, don’t miss our expert Q&A with Dr Alexandra Moorhouse, who answers common questions about our new private GP service – designed to give patients fast access to advice, diagnosis and peace of mind.

I hope you enjoy this issue,

Jim Easton Chief Executive ON THE COVER Dr Hilary Jones after his hip replacement at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Birmingham

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NEWS

VR HEADSET TRIAL UNDER WAY

VR surgery first patient, Tony Wakeling with consultant Mr Ahad

Practice Plus Group Hospital, Ilford, is trialling a new Virtual Reality (VR) experience for joint surgery patients.

Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Nurul Ahad has introduced the technology for patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery under spinal anaesthetic. Inspired by growing evidence on the benefits of VR in surgery, Mr Ahad has already trialled it successfully with several patients, with more booked in over the coming period.

The VR headset offers patients a calming, immersive experience, allowing patients to choose what they watch during surgery. The technology helps reduce anxiety, lowers heart rate, and provides a welcome distraction.

Clinical studies have also shown the use of VR can lead to more stable 4 Practice Plus Group Connect Magazine

blood pressure, reduced bleeding, and better surgical outcomes.

Mr Ahad said: “It’s a simple yet powerful tool that adds real value.

Surgery can now literally be a walk in the park!”

Tony Wakeling, from Ilford, tried it out during his knee replacement and found it transformed his experience.

“I’ve been struggling with my knee for years. It was painful and stopped me from walking, which I used to love,” said Tony. “The VR headset was very comfortable to wear. I had a controller to pick what I wanted to watch. Mr Ahad showed me a calm video walking through a park, but I chose a couple of YouTube videos about the war – one of my interests.

I didn’t hear anything in the theatre and it really put me at ease. The surgery flew by. I’d recommend it to anyone.”

NEWS

BIRMINGHAM CELEBRATES OVER 1,000 GP REFERRALS Just six months after opening to NHS patients, Practice Plus Group Hospital, Birmingham is celebrating a major milestone – more than 1,000 NHS patient referrals from across the region.

One of the hospital’s greatest strengths is its impressively short NHS waiting times, a stark contrast to delays of up to two years often experienced elsewhere. At this hospital, NHS patients can expect to be seen within just a few months.

Hip and knee surgery patients, for example, are typically treated within two to three months of their GP referral – well inside the NHS’s 18week target.

Although the hospital officially opened its doors in October

2024 following a £10 million refurbishment, it began accepting NHS referrals in January 2025.

Since then, the hospital has grown rapidly, now offering a wide range of services to both NHS and private patients. These include endoscopy, diagnostics (such as MRI and ultrasound), and ophthalmology services including cataract surgery.

care. Whether through the NHS or privately, our patients are getting back to their best sooner, and that’s what healthcare should be about.”

This expansion has helped reduce pressure on waiting lists not only in Birmingham but further afield.

Everyone’s favourite TV doctor, Dr Hilary Jones, recently travelled 180 miles to access surgery sooner (see page 8).

Hospital Director Samantha Doubleday said: “People are actively seeking choice and quicker access to high-quality

Colleagues from our Birmingham Hospital

Growing our veteran awareness Southampton’s veteran awareness service champions

The Southampton and Portsmouth hospitals were led by two former Royal Navy healthcare professionals, Natalie Rickaby and Natalie Gray, who have gone beyond the standard requirements to create inclusive, veteran-aware environments.

Four Practice Plus Group hospitals – Plymouth, Southampton, Portsmouth and Birmingham – have been officially recognised as Veteran Aware, marking a major step forward in our commitment to supporting veterans, serving personnel and their families.

At the heart of the initiative is a network of Service Champions – staff from across departments who have completed national training to better understand and support Armed Forces patients and colleagues. Easily identified by a badge and lanyard, they provide visible points of connection for patients who may benefit from specialist support.

Accreditation from the Veterans Covenant Healthcare Alliance (VCHA) confirms our delivery of safe, informed and personalised care for the Armed Forces community.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by staff interest,” said Natalie Rickaby.

“Some champions have no prior connection to the Forces – they just want to understand and help. That’s what makes this so special.”

Natalie Gray added: “This programme helps our wider workforce understand veterans’ experiences and why we may respond the way we do. That awareness makes a huge difference.”

In Birmingham, Hospital Director Samantha Doubleday, a former Royal Air Force Nursing Officer, is spearheading the Secondary Care Veteran Aware programme across the group. Partnerships with the Royal British Legion and Citizens Advice will extend support beyond hospital care, with ambitions for all sites to gain accreditation.

Ex-Army radiographer in Portsmouth, Comfort Musaigwa

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NEWS

REFUGEES FIND FRESH START refugees’ access to the UK labour market.

Through this collaboration, Emersons Green has opened up new job opportunities for refugee jobseekers. The journey began with a successful careers open day in the spring, designed to showcase roles in healthcare and offer practical support such as CV writing, interview preparation, hospital tours, and introductions to both NHS and private healthcare.

Radmehr Shafiee and Aykut Eroglu

Practice Plus Group Hospital, Emersons Green is celebrating the success of a new partnership that is enriching lives and strengthening its workforce.

The hospital has joined Tent UK, a coalition of over 80 major companies committed to supporting

Since then, three refugees have joined the team in sterile services and theatres, starting fresh careers with support at every step.

One new colleague, Radmehr Shafiee, a 37-year-old former veterinary surgeon from Iran, shared: “I couldn’t legally work while waiting for asylum, but once I received refugee status I immediately started looking for a job. Now I am working in the hospital and it’s a highly enjoyable

experience. The team is really professional and friendly. It was a turning point in my life. This job gives me hope to change my accommodation and improve my mental health.”

Another new team member, Aykut Eroglu, 33, who previously fled conflict, added: “When I came to the UK, I didn’t know how I would start again. I spoke no English, had no job – Practice Plus Group have given me new hope for the future. The team here is like a family. I’m learning every day, improving my English, and finally feel secure.”

Hospital Director Andrew Oakerbee said: “Welcoming our new colleagues has been incredibly positive. They bring unique strengths and perspectives that enrich our workplace culture and reinforce our values of diversity, inclusion, and equality.”

Celebrating National Award Success We’re proud to share that Practice Plus Group has been shortlisted for eight prestigious national awards across two major events – the Nursing Times Workforce Summit & Awards and the LaingBuisson Awards.

These nominations reflect the passion, creativity, and teamwork of colleagues across the organisation, from nursing and wellbeing champions to EDI initiatives.

They highlight our commitment to delivering outstanding patient outcomes, supporting colleagues, and building an inclusive, supportive workplace.

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Nursing Times Workforce Summit & Awards 2025

LaingBuisson Awards 2025

• Best UK Employer of the Year for Nursing staff

• Public Private Partnership

• Best Employer for Diversity and Inclusion • Best Employer for Staff Recognition and Engagement • Nurse Manager of the Year – Tracie Wilson • Best Staff Wellbeing Initiative

• Hospital Group of the Year • Best Healthcare Outcomes

NEWS

Adrian Peake, Director of Operations, Sue Flitney, Imaging Assistant, and Michelle Saunders, Service Lead

Staff, patients and the local community are celebrating a major milestone this week as Practice Plus Group Diagnostics, Buckinghamshire – known locally as the Merlin Centre – marks 20 years of delivering high-quality diagnostic services.

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE DIAGNOSTICS CENTRE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF CARE Since opening in August 2005, the High Wycombe centre has provided tens of thousands of NHS patients with vital scans, now performing around 3,300 each month.

Over the years it has expanded services, including a dedicated musculoskeletal (MSK) facility, and extended opening hours to seven days a week.

Many of the 60-strong team have been with the facility since day one. Sue Flitney, Imaging Assistant, said: “Many people come in really nervous to have an MRI scan.

I’m claustrophobic myself, so I understand it. I stay with them, talk them through it, help them relax…

If we spot someone struggling, we adjust – we do what we can to support the patient so that they get the outcome they need.”

Service Lead Michelle Saunders said: “We’re overwhelmingly proud of our team, and celebrating two decades of patient care together feels incredible.”

Coinciding with the 20th anniversary, the centre is undergoing a significant £1.5m

Four-tonne delivery

To book an MRI, email us at private.diagnostics@practiceplusgroup.com or call 0330 1731313

investment to expand and enhance its services to meet the increasing demand for both NHS and private patients across Buckinghamshire and neighbouring counties. This includes a new reception area and the installation of a new state-ofthe-art MRI scanner this autumn.

This means the site will have two permanent scanners and space for its mobile MRI scanning unit if required.

The new MRI scanner was recently delivered and installed. Weighing around four tonnes, the innovative Siemens Healthineers scanner arrived from Germany in September, taking a collective effort from crane engineers and delivery teams to safely move into our brand new MRI suite.

Our second on-site scanner will offer numerous benefits, including more efficient scanning – due to state-of-the-art software – producing faster scans and clearer images, improved patient comfort and reduced waiting times.

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FEATURE

DR HILARY JONES GETS A HIP REPLACEMENT AT OUR BIRMINGHAM HOSPITAL!

We were thrilled to welcome TV doctor Hilary Jones this summer for a hip replacement. The popular GP, 72, from Kent, underwent a second hip replacement at our new hospital in Birmingham, almost 180 miles from home, to reduce his waiting time for NHS treatment.

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He has since spoken out about his own surgery to show others awaiting treatment that they can also fast-track themselves if they’re happy to travel.

Dr Hilary took advantage of NHS Patient Choice after discovering that our Birmingham hospital, which he officially opened for us at a launch event last year – had a short waiting list.

Patient choice in the NHS provides patients with a legal right to choose where they receive their NHS healthcare services, including private hospitals that offer NHS treatment.

FEATURE

Speaking after his procedure, Hilary said: “It was over 180 miles from my home to Birmingham – but as it’s a new hospital and it’s a private hospital that treats NHS patients, they could get me in very quickly just with a referral from my GP. I’d do it again in a heartbeat for faster, quality care and highly recommend it.

“Patient Choice gives people real power – they just need to know it’s there. The NHS App is going to be developed further to make this easier, and you can speak to your GP about your choices. You can choose to be referred to a private hospital at the outset, or you can switch hospitals like I did if you’re facing delays locally.

“It’s free for the patient and costs the NHS no more than if that same patient had their op at an NHS hospital. For people like me, who are lucky enough to be mobile despite needing an operation, it makes complete sense to find a hospital that can do your operation sooner so you can get on the road to recovery sooner. People don’t want to be on a waiting list. They want to get on with their lives.

Dr Hilary and his consultant orthopaedic surgeon Mr Kamran Shahid

“Every single person that looked after me was amazing and couldn’t have done any more. I am delighted with the result so far.”

Dr Hilary officially opening the Birmingham hospital last year

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FEATURE

“Every single person that looked after me was amazing and couldn’t have done any more. I am delighted with the result so far.”

Dr Hilary getting ready to leave

In a survey of adults suffering from chronic aches and pains – including those in need of hip and knee replacements – many agreed they would also be willing to travel if it meant they could get the surgery they’re desperate for, sooner.

On average, respondents were happy to travel 60 miles if it meant they’d be seen within three-to-four weeks, or 49 miles for a six-to-eight-week timeframe.

And one in 10 would even travel over 200 miles if they could get the NHS surgery they need within a month.

Of those polled, 36 per cent are currently on a waiting list, and 17 per cent have been in a queue for more than a year. But 55 per cent had no idea that under NHS patient choice, you can choose to travel to a hospital outside of your area that has a shorter waiting list – often a private hospital that treats NHS patients.

Those surveyed had similar motivations to Dr Hilary, with 55 per cent simply wanting to resume normal activities sooner, and 68 per cent wanting to avoid prolonged discomfort and pain.

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Jim Easton, chief executive of Practice Plus Group, said: “It’s fantastic for patients that in the NHS 10 year plan, the government has renewed its commitment to using capacity in the private sector and to creating a new patient choice charter to ensure the NHS is receptive and reactive to patient preferences.

“To achieve the ambitious waiting time targets, we also need more people to know that they can travel outside of their immediate area if they find a hospital that can see them sooner.

“It is important people realise they have the power to be proactive and get their treatment sooner, get back to work and back on track as soon as possible.

“We’re proud to have been able to help Dr Hilary and wish him a speedy and healthy recovery.”

FEATURE

Dr Hilary shares his experience “I’d started to notice I had less mobility in my hip and was feeling things were more difficult to do than usual. My hip wouldn’t flex, so it was increasingly difficult to just get a sock and a shoe on my left foot.

I like to keep active, and when I was swimming, doing breaststroke, my hip wouldn’t go outwards and occasionally my hip would catch. I needed to exercise, so I did what I could, but it would twinge.

I suppose I’ve put up with stiffness in the joint for a year.

“I saw my GP and discovered I could be waiting around a year for surgery locally. Knowing I wanted to get treated as soon as possible on the NHS, I was prepared to look at other hospitals with shorter waiting lists using ‘Patient Choice’. I’d opened the Practice Plus Group Hospital in Birmingham last year, and when I learnt they had no NHS waiting list at the time, I jumped in. Having met the team, they were all lovely, so I made the arrangements with my GP and cancelled the other booking. I later returned to the hospital in Birmingham to see my consultant, Mr Kamran Shahid.

“At the pre-op consultation we did the initial questionnaire and assessment, plus blood tests, X-rays, and the ECG, which is very thorough. We were then able to book in a date for surgery.

“The surgery itself went really well. Hip operations are relatively straightforward – it’s basically carpentry! Mr Shahid certainly put me at ease and reassured me. I had absolute trust in him and when I was admitted, I was visited by the nursing staff, the catering staff, the anaesthetist and the doctor.

So I was completely happy with communication throughout – it was 100%, so I knew exactly what was going on.

“I had a very straightforward spinal anaesthetic.

They give you sedation and I don’t remember a thing. Didn’t hear anything, didn’t see anything! It took about an hour and a half. Then I was back in the room and fully alert having a cup of tea and some lunch.

“I can’t fault the treatment I had. It was absolutely first class, and I felt I was treated like royalty. But at the same time, I know I was treated just like everybody else.”

Dr Hilary and his anaesthetist Dr Arun Nair

Dr Hilary with Henry Boyle and Jordan Nelson from the physiotherapy team

“The surgery itself went really well. Hip operations are relatively straightforward – it’s basically carpentry!”

Dr Hilary and Mr Kamran Shahid

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A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

SOPHIE EVERETT PARAMEDIC PRACTITIONER

Sophie Everett, a paramedic practitioner, joined Practice Plus Group Urgent Treatment Centre, Portsmouth, after stepping away from the ambulance service.

With a background in pre-hospital care, she was looking for a role that still challenged her clinically but with better work life balance and longterm growth.

Here she describes what made her choose the walk-in centre at St Mary’s, Portsmouth, which sees NHS patients who need urgent but not emergency care.

“After spending most of my career in the ambulance service, I was ready for something new. I loved the clinical side of the job, but I found the working hours and lifestyle increasingly hard to manage. It wasn’t sustainable for me anymore.

I knew I wanted to stay in a patientfacing role but with a better worklife balance and the chance to grow.

“I joined Practice Plus Group in Portsmouth about five years ago, and I’ve been really enjoying it. I didn’t have much experience in an urgent treatment centre setting before, but I’ve found the role to be really varied and interesting.

You never know what’s going to come through the door. It varies from minor injuries to complex presentations, which keeps the clinical work stimulating.

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“It’s a nice mix between using the skills I already had and developing new ones. I’m also learning to manage cases more independently, which has been great for my confidence.”

“What I like most is that the team is really supportive. There’s always someone around to ask questions or get a second opinion from. You don’t feel alone in your decisionmaking, even when managing cases autonomously.

“There’s a good mix of nurses, paramedics, and advanced practitioners, and everyone works well together. The working environment is calm and respectful, and that makes a big difference.

you’re not simply thrown into a role and left to figure things out. The organisation genuinely invests in helping you develop and move forward in your career.

“The rota and shift patterns are so much more manageable than what I was used to. Having evenings and weekends back have made a big difference to my life outside of work. It’s been a huge improvement for my wellbeing.

The environment, the support, and the opportunities to develop are all here.”

“The team and management place a real focus on the career progression of the employees here. I am in the final year of my Masters (MSc) in Advanced Clinical Practice and am currently doing my dissertation. I have had support from the leadership team from day one.

“There’s a clear structure to professional development here,

Sophie Everett

PATIENT STORY

When 79-year-old Humphrey Gervais and his wife Kathy moved from London to Somerset for a slower pace of life, he didn’t expect worsening carpal tunnel syndrome in his right hand to start disrupting daily life. With little support from his GP practice, Humphrey turned to private healthcare – a decision he now calls life-changing.

“We moved to Somerset about two years ago. We had lived in London for a long time and wanted a change. When I had a tingly feeling in my right hand for about a year, I started to consider what to do about it and what health services were available to me in the area.

“My hand had got really bad. It became a numbness, and it would happen when I was driving. I’d have to shake my hand and the feeling would come back.

“I went to the GP… the nurse more or less said, ‘there’s nothing we can do about that’. I felt I received little support.

“What really pushed me to do something was when it started waking me up at night. I couldn’t grip things properly, writing was awkward, and it affected my ability to use tools. Even typing was getting difficult. The numbness was getting worse.”

Kathy had recently had cataract surgery at Practice Plus Group Hospital, Shepton Mallet, so the couple already knew of its reputation.

“What impressed me straightaway when I enquired about my own surgery was that the initial consultation with its Wellsoon private healthcare service was only £95. I thought I’d just go and have a look. In London, I’d paid twice that just to sit in front of someone…

From pain to power: Humphrey’s story The £95 included everything – consultation, examination, explanation, and even an X-ray if you needed it. That’s really impressive.”

“I saw Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, Alison Edwards… She told me there are two ways to deal with it – an injection, which would provide temporary pain relief, or a small op, which is what she recommended. She said if I didn’t have it done, I could eventually lose all feeling in those fingers. That was enough for me to book it in.

“I didn’t realise how much I couldn’t do before the surgery until after it was done. Now, I’ve got full movement back. I’m even going to the gym – I lift weights, use all the machines. No problem at all.”

“The value for money was amazing.

And the level of care? Exceptional.”

“Just two days later they rang up and said, ‘We’ve had a cancellation – can you come in Monday?’ I was amazed at how quick it all was.

“The whole experience was really professional. Everyone there was calm, friendly, and extremely efficient. You felt like you were in good hands. I’ve been in a lot of hospitals… and I have to say this one was right up there.

Humphrey Gervais and wife Kathy

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FEATURE

EXPERT Q&A agree on a plan together. As we’re based in a hospital, tests like X-rays or bloods can often be done during the same appointment to keep things streamlined.

Q Do you offer any specialist health checks?

A Yes – I offer checks for conditions such as high blood pressure, anaemia, and diabetes, plus general health MOTs and cancer screening, including prostate and bowel cancer. I also do medicals for adoptive parents, taxi drivers and HGV licences. If you’re unsure what you need, we can start with a general check-up and create a plan together.

Q How important is timely access to treatment?

Our Wellsoon private healthcare service recently introduced private GPs to our hospitals in Emersons Green near Bristol, Shepton Mallet in Somerset, and Birmingham. Dr Alexandra Moorhouse, who has worked in private and NHS healthcare in the UK and Australia, tells us more.

Q What are some common reasons people opt to visit a private GP? A A lot of people come to me because they’ve struggled to get a GP appointment or feel they’re not getting answers about their health. I see a bit of everything – but common issues include muscle and joint pain, menopause or hormonal concerns, and people wanting a clearer picture of their overall health and risks.

Q What can someone expect from a private appointment?

A We’ll start by discussing your symptoms, medical history, any medications, and family health concerns. I’ll carry out a physical exam if needed. From there, we’ll 14 Practice Plus Group Connect Magazine

A Really important. Whether you’re in pain or just worried, quick access helps. Some conditions have better outcomes with early diagnosis and treatment. I’ve seen the huge positive impact timely care can have on a patient’s wellbeing.

Q Can you offer referrals for further tests or diagnoses?

A Absolutely. Many investigations can be done on-site, sometimes even during your appointment. If further or specialist tests are needed, I can refer you within Practice Plus Group or to the private provider of your choice. I’ll follow up the results with you either way.

Q Can you offer prescriptions privately or as a one-off?

A Yes, I’m happy to prescribe most medications on a one-off basis. For long-term medications, I usually write to your NHS GP to add them to your repeat prescription, especially if ongoing monitoring is required.

Q What are some key benefits of visiting a private GP? A We have more time and flexibility to manage your health, faster access to tests and specialists, and guaranteed continuity of care. Many patients really value seeing the same GP each time, which is something that’s becoming rare in the public system.

Q How does the service differ from an NHS appointment?

A Aside from the fact that we can offer on-site imaging, same-day blood tests and point-of-care testing for some conditions, appointments are longer, giving us time to explore your concerns fully and create a comprehensive plan.

Q How long would someone expect to wait for an appointment?

A It depends on the location and your flexibility. I sometimes have same-day appointments, but typically the wait is between a couple of days to a week.

Q Can you offer telephone consultations?

A Yes. Phone consultations are a good option for people who work during the day. If I feel an issue needs a physical exam, we can arrange a follow-up in person. You often learn a lot from seeing someone in person, even just how they walk into the room.

Q What do you enjoy most about your role?

A I love helping people understand their health. In the private setting, I have time to explain the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of a diagnosis or treatment plan, which empowers people to make better choices. When patients have that ‘lightbulb’ moment and something clicks – that’s one of the best parts of the job.

Q How do you deliver test results to patients?

A I usually book a follow-up appointment, either face-to-face or by phone. This gives people the chance to go through everything in detail and ask any questions.

Find out more Wellsoon from Practice Plus Group offers GP appointments at its Emersons Green, Shepton Mallet and Birmingham hospitals. To book an appointment, call 03330 606294. Your first appointment costs £95 (30 minutes), with followups at £45 (15 minutes).

PRIZE CROSSWORD

Why wait?

CROSSWORD COMPETITION Complete and send in the form below with your crossword to be entered into a prize draw and the chance to win a £50 John Lewis voucher.

✃

The closing date is 15th November 2025. Ts and Cs below.

CONTACT US Private treatment enquiries: Call 03330 606 294 Email privatepatient@ practiceplusgroup.com Visit practiceplusgroup.com/contact Visit us online: practiceplusgroup.com Want to work with us? practiceplusgroup.com/jobs Read Connect magazine online: practiceplusgroup.com/connect Share your story: Email ppgcomms@ practiceplusgroup.com

Across

Down

6 Novel by Louisa May Alcott (6,5) 7 Surgical cutting or piercing tool (6) 8 Fraud; prank (4) 9 Constellation known as The Archer (11) 11 Molten rock (4) 12 Jack ___, US adventure novelist (6) 14 Short work by Frédéric Chopin (6,5)

1 Capital of Latvia (4) 2 Trapped by routine (5,2,1,3) 3 One who doesn’t drink alcohol (11) 4 A spouse’s parent (6-2-3) 5 Uncanny feeling of familiarity (4,2) 10 Language of the Middle East and North Africa (6) 13 Vow (4)

Autumn 2025 Prize Crossword Entry Form Fill in your details below and send your completed crossword to: Practice Plus Group Comms, Ground Floor, 1330 Arlington Business Park, Theale, Reading, Berkshire RG7 4SA Name:

Previous Edition Crossword Answers ACROSS: 1 DOWN-TO-EARTH, 7 ENEMY, 8 CABER, 9 FILLET, 12 BLOW, 13 NEST, 15 MOHAIR, 19 LLOYD, 20 SLASH, 21 GOLDEN SYRUP. DOWN: 1 DEEP FINE LEG, 2 WHEEL, 3 THYME, 4 ETCH, 5 REBEL, 6 HEROWORSHIP, 10 LOT, 11 TOM, 12 BAH, 14 SEOUL, 16 OASIS, 17 ADAIR, 18 IDLE.

Address: Postcode: Telephone:

PRIZE DRAW TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. The Prize Draw is open to all readers of Connect except employees of the communications team at Practice Plus Group. 2. The closing date for receipt of all entries is 10th June 2024. 3. Responsibility cannot be accepted for entries that are incomplete, illegible or not received. Proof of posting is not proof of receipt. No cash alternative is available and prizes are not transferable. Value of prize is correct at time of going to press. 4. Winners will be notified by post. 5. The Promoter's decision on any aspect of the

promotions is final and binding. No correspondence will be entered into. 6. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value should circumstances make this necessary. 7. Entry implies acceptance of rules.

8. The winner of the crossword prize of a £50 John Lewis & Partners gift card will be the first correct entry drawn out of the bag. 9. The Promoter is Practice Plus Group, Ground Floor, 1330 Arlington Business Park, Theale, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 4SA

Practice Plus Group Connect Magazine 15

Get seen.

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9 £95 consultation, including x-rays, blood tests, and an expert opinion 9 No wait lists, no brainer!

Fast access to specialist consultant-led care 9 Simple and straightforward access: pay for yourself, use your health insurance or opt for a payment plan

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Over 10,000 joint surgeries carried out last year.

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03330 604 641 Practice Plus Group Hospitals Limited trading as Practice Plus Group is an Appointed Representative of Chrysalis Finance Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Practice Plus Group Hospitals Limited is a credit broker, not a lender. Acceptance is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Visit practiceplusgroup.com/wellsoon/t-and-c