NHS Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) have launched a joint campaign to reassure the public that GP practices are open and safe to visit during the pandemic.
It comes amid concerns that fewer people are seeing their GPs during the coronavirus pandemic.
The campaign, coupled with the “#HelpUsHelpYou” social media hashtag, is urging people not to put-off seeing their doctors if they have health concerns.
A poster released by the two CCGs says that GPs have adopted new ways of working to keep people safe.
The poster explains:
- If you have a medical concern, do not put off contacting your GP.
- To reduce the need to visit your GP practice you can use their online facility (EConsult or EMIS Triage) to securely send medical requests.
- GP practices are offering different types of appointments depending on your health concern.
- You will be offered a phone appointment first.
- You may also be offered an online appointment. This is a consultation or video call over the internet with a GP or healthcare professional.
- If you need to be seen face to-face, you will be offered an appointment at the practice.
If you do have a face-to-face appointment with your GP, the poster asks that you wear a mask, adhere to social distancing, and use hand sanitisers provided on-site.