There have been many comments and news reports over the past few months saying that GP practices have been closed during the pandemic. Dr Turner and Partners would like to reassure all their patients that the surgery remains open and accessible to all as it has been since the start of this pandemic.
Yes we are working slightly differently and as instructed by NHS England we are operating the total triage system, which in essence means that should you need your GP you will be offered a telephone triage appointment first. Unfortunately we are not able to give you a timed appointment due to the high number of calls the team are making. Following your telephone consultation your GP will decide if they need to see you face to face. Our nurses and HCA’s are also offering all the same services as they were previously. Our new pharmacist is also available to help with medication queries and will also be undertaking medication reviews.
The main difference is that our front door remains shut. When you arrive at the practice, you will need to politely knock on the front door and one of our helpful receptionists will come and assist you. If you need to enter the building they will ask you some screening questions and also take your temperature. Please bear with them as they are working extremely hard.
Since the start of the pandemic the clinical team have undertaken:
- Over 10,000 Face to Face Appointments
- Over 11,000 Telephone Consultations
- 89 Home Visits
- 170 Care Home Visits
General practice is open…
…but because of the Coronavirus pandemic the way patients are seen in primary care has changed.
If you feel unwell or have any worrying symptoms, such as potential signs of cancer, you should seek medical assistance
GP practices are open and here to help but because of the need to minimise the amount of face to face contact to keep you safe, most appointments in the first instance are carried out over the phone or via video. In an emergency, for example if you thing you might be having a heart attack or stroke, call 999.
If a face to face appointment is needed you will still be seen in person by a GP
Telephone appointments are not suitable for everyone – if you need a physical examination or blood test, for example. You and your GP can reach a decision on what is best for you.
If you have Coronavirus symptoms you should stay at home for at least 10 days…
…from when your symptoms started and call NHS 111 if your symptoms worsen. You should arrange to take a test by visiting www.nhs.uk or by calling 119 but do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.