Senior GPs from the Cotswolds have asked for the public’s understanding and support as they strive to meet unprecedented challenges.
As well as the usual increase in demand during the winter months, GP surgery teams are delivering the expanded flu immunisation campaign and preparing for the COVID-19 mass vaccination programme.
Dr Hywel Furn-Davies, from Mann Cottage Surgery in Moreton-on-Marsh, said: “Across Gloucestershire, GP practices are working incredibly hard to meet the health and care needs of their patients and to protect the public by supporting vital public health programmes.
"We are thankful for the support of our local communities and for recognising the pressures being experienced within local GP surgeries during these unprecedented times.
"Despite the strict infection control procedures in place, on occasions surgeries will have staff who need to self-isolate or may be unwell and this brings additional challenges for practice teams.
"We do realise these are difficult times for all, but some practice staff across the county are experiencing unpleasant behaviour and comments and we’re just asking people to think twice and be kind.
"We really appreciate patience and understanding when making contact with practice staff. They are totally committed to patients and are doing their level best under significant pressure.”
Dr Alan Gwynn, from The Avenue Surgery in Cirencester, added: “GP surgeries are really feeling the stretch at the moment. They are working flat out to meet the day to day medical needs of patients and also plan and give their full backing to these important public vaccination programmes that stand to protect individuals and communities.
"Gloucestershire’s GPs and their teams will be playing a central role in the COVID-19 vaccination roll out and this is a major effort for all concerned.
"We appreciate the kindness we are receiving from the majority of patients and it’s important to stress that we do still want people to contact us if they are worried about their health and have symptoms that need to be checked out urgently.
"We are all working extremely hard to keep waiting times down and have procedures in place to prioritise patients with urgent needs.”
Director of primary care at NHS Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, Helen Goodey, said: "The CCG is extremely proud of the incredible work of GPs and practice teams in getting ready to deliver the COVID-19 Mass Vaccination.
"Gloucestershire residents will be well served by the hard work and dedication of our GP workforce who have come together with community NHS services in local networks to plan and deliver the vaccine to priority groups over the coming weeks and months.
"We need to support our GP surgeries now more than ever and protect this vital resource for local people now and in the future.”
GP practices across Gloucestershire were recognised nationally this year for the speed in which they adapted their working practices at the beginning of the pandemic. This included expansion of online and video consultations.
Here is how you can get help over the winter:
- Call your GP surgery or go online if you need urgent medical help or have an illness that won’t go away. The surgery will first assess your needs over the phone or online so you are cared for by the right person, in the right place for your illness.
- You may be offered a telephone appointment or e-consultation, but practices continue to offer face to face appointments where there is a medical need.
- Don't turn up at the surgery unless asked to and respect practice staff .
- Over ordering of repeat medication is not needed and GP surgeries will not be changing the usual length of medicine supplies to patients. This will ensure there are always stocks available.
- Be patient and await confirmation of remaining flu vaccination clinics and appointments – if you are eligible for the vaccine, your surgery will contact you.
- Consider your community pharmacy if you have a minor ailment. Pharmacists can advise if you need to see a GP or use another NHS service.
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