Mobile surgery targets

farmers at livestock market

Reluctant farmers have been receiving on the spot care thanks to a new mobile surgery that has opened at their weekly livestock market.

Research found that farmers in Somerset often put their work before their health, with many having gone years, sometimes decades, without visiting a GP.

Now, a bi-monthly health hub at Wheddon Cross livestock market is helping farmers get checked over and bring undiagnosed conditions to light.

April Bosley, Lead Nurse, said more than 25 people were seen on the hub’s first day, with three being sent to hospital for further investigations.

The hub is one of three currently operating in the Somerset area.

Each mobile surgery was funded by donations gathered by Exmoor Rural Health Hub, along with grants from Somerset Community Foundation.

The pilot project could provide the blueprint for similar healthcare initiatives in other areas, as access to healthcare is often more challenging within rural communities.

Farmer David Powell said: “You’re that busy that you just let it go. You think ‘oh I can’t be bothered today.’

“Whereas if you come into the market, you can come in here and it only takes a few minutes.”

Find out more about the initiative at www.erhh.co.uk.