Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI)
Systematic assessment and treatment for common illnesses in children under five.
Ongoing Care
Minor Ailments
Everyday illnesses and injuries, assessed properly, treated sensibly and sent home with clear advice.
Ongoing Care
What this service is
Minor ailments are common conditions that do not need a hospital but do need attention: coughs and colds, sore throats, ear infections, sinusitis, diarrhoea, constipation, mild skin conditions, burns, minor wounds, sprains and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
A minor ailment should not be taken lightly, because what looks minor can become something more serious, particularly in the very young, the very old, or in someone with a long-term condition. We assess first, and we treat only what we are confident about.
A visit is also a good opportunity to check on other things: your blood pressure, your weight, your immunisation status, or how you are managing a long-term condition. Please ask.
At your visit
What to expect
Every visit is a little different, but these are the steps you can expect for this service at Ikageng Health Centre.
Your symptoms
How long they have lasted, how severe they are and what you have already tried are discussed first.
Examination
The area concerned is examined properly, and where needed we listen to your chest or check your throat and ears.
A decision
We decide together whether this can be treated here, or whether it needs a referral to a hospital or a specialist.
Treatment
The right medicine and dose are given, with instructions you can follow at home.
Home care
Advice on fluids, rest, food and what you can do to feel better while you recover.
Warning signs
Clear instructions on which changes mean you should come back, and which mean you need care urgently.
Reasons to visit
Why people come to us
If any of these sound like you, please come in — or phone us first if you would like to talk it through before you do.
- Cough, cold, sore throat, sinusitis or earache.
- Diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation or stomach complaints.
- Mild skin rashes, eczema, acne or minor infections.
- Minor injuries: cuts, grazes, sprains, strains and small burns.
- Urinary tract infection symptoms, or a repeat prescription for a condition that is stable.
Before you come
- Bring your clinic card or any records you have.
- Bring a list of any medication and supplements you take.
- Bring the results of any tests done elsewhere.
- Write down your questions beforehand — it helps.
- Bring someone with you if you would like support.
All of our conversations are private. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and you can ask to speak alone.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, phone us on 067 575 2528 — we are happy to talk it through.
Do I need an appointment?
You can come in during our opening hours, but calling ahead on 067 575 2528 lets us set aside the right amount of time and avoid a long wait.
Can you give me a prescription for my usual medicine?
If your condition is stable and we have reviewed it, yes. If we need to see you first, we will do that and arrange the prescription at the same visit.
When should I come back?
We will tell you at the end of the visit. If symptoms are not improving after a few days, or if they get worse, please come back — and seek urgent care for the warning signs we mention.
Do you treat children’s minor ailments?
Yes. Children are assessed using the IMCI approach, which checks systematically for the signs that matter in a young child.
Related
You might also need
Many of our services work hand in hand. These are the ones people ask about most often alongside minor ailments.
Chronic Condition Care and Monitoring
Regular review and support for long-term conditions, so that your treatment keeps up with your life.
Immunisation
Vaccines for you and your children, on schedule, protecting the whole community.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you need this service, a routine screening, or simply have a question about your health, we are here to help.