Don't wait for an emergency says Dorset CCG

Don't steer clear of your GP just because of the pandemic - that's the message from Dorset's surgeries this winter.

Dorset CCG are reminding us primary care services may have changed, but they're still there.

They say you should get in touch if you have health concerns before they become a bigger problem.

Dr Forbes Watson is a local GP and Chair of NHS Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group said:

"What we do not want is people sitting at home, either worried that they can't access services, or they may have a potentially serious condition and they're choosing not to attend for fear of infection

"If people don't present, the also might emerge as an emergency at a later stage and that's a much more significant risk to them, and affects our ability to treat them effectively."

The CCG are reminding people they can still get in touch online or on the phone in the first instance. Practices in Dorset also use eConsult – an online system which enables patients to complete a confidential online form which is then sent to their GP who will respond the following day to offer advice, referral to an alternative service or an appointment if necessary.

If you need a face to face appointment, you will be offered one with the most appropriate person – it may not be your GP; however, it is more likely you will be contacted remotely for example by phone or offered a video consultation.

If your GP thinks you need to be referred to a hospital for treatment or tests, they will arrange this and let you know the details.

If you have an appointment for a vaccination or treatment, they're asking us to still attend.

Dr Forbes Watson said:

“During the COVID-19 pandemic we have all learnt a great deal and had to adapt our ways of working to enable us to carry on offering care to patients whilst at the same time ensuring they are protected and risk to our own staff is minimised. This is why we are asking people to contact us first via the phone or online rather than turn up as they may have done in the past.

"Despite these changes we still want to see people so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your local practice if you have any concerns, and if you are invited for a check-up or vaccination please make sure you attend.”

The NHS in Dorset is also reminding people of other options when care is needed:

Pharmacy

Speak to your local pharmacist who can provide you with the medicines and advice you need.

111.nhs.uk or 111

If you need urgent advice and aren’t sure where to go.

A&E or ED

If it is serious or life threatening, don’t hesitate – call 999

For more information and details of where to find your nearest service visit www.nhs.uk