GPs are changing their approach towards the coronavirus pandemic.

In order to protect healthcare staff, patients and the general public, in particular the most vulnerable members of society, NHS Worcestershire CCGs are changing the way that Worcestershire General Practice operates during the crisis.

Dr Jonathan Wells, GP Primary Care lead for COVID-19 across Worcestershire said: “We understand patients are anxious however the changes we are making are because we want to keep the public and NHS staff safe and well. Anyone needing an appointment will first be spoken to on the phone or via video. This will help to protect vulnerable patients, staff and the wider population. For the vast majority of cases, this will be sufficient to diagnose and advise on the issue. Face-to-face consultations will be rare and only offered if it is felt important in determining a patient’s management or for an intervention, for example to take a blood test.

“If a face-to-face appointment is considered essential, patients may be asked to attend a surgery at a different location to the one you are used to. Please rest assured that your notes will be securely accessible from the new location.