GPs still there for face-to-face appointments

Doctors in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire are reminding their patients that they continue to offer face-to-face appointments to those who need to see them.

Throughout the pandemic, GP practices ensured that essential services continued to run, often using innovative ways to communicate with the communities they serve.

Now many practices continue to use telephone and video consultations where appropriate; this allows many patients the freedom of talking to a healthcare professional (not always the GP) in the comfort and convenience of their own home.

Most practices also have online systems such as E-Consult or Ask My GP, to allow patients to ask a non-urgent question about their health. Please see your practice’s website for more information.

My Health Online remains an online 24/7 option for ordering repeat medication – all designed for patient convenience and especially useful for those who are self-isolating or shielding. Patients can register for this which through their GP practice.

Telephone triage systems are in place in the majority of surgeries to ensure that a patient speaks to a clinical member of staff about their health.

If a patient needs to be seen in person, the surgery will make appointment with the most appropriate healthcare professional for their need.

Dr Sion James of Tregaron Surgery said: “We wish to reassure patients that GP services are still available to you. When you contact your practice, you will speak to the most appropriate person for your condition and if you need be seen in person, you will be given an appointment at the practice.

“Many conditions can be treated over the phone with advice and if required, a prescription can be issued to your nominated pharmacy. Please do not put off seeking treatment.

“Please remember that community pharmacies offer a wide range of services including treatment for minor ailments.”

Community Pharmacist Richard Evans added: “Community pharmacists have traditionally advised patients on a wide range of ailments. We have always recommended appropriate treatments to the patient, or if necessary, refer them to another healthcare professional.

“During the current pandemic, the dispensing of prescriptions is still the main focus however some other services are also available, such as the Common Ailments Service, Triage and Treat, emergency supply of medication and emergency contraception.

“Some of these services can now be done via telephone consultation, with the patient or a carer/family member collecting any necessary medication.

“Don’t forget to order any repeat medication in plenty of time before you run out.”

In addition to the professional expertise offered at pharmacies, eligible patients will be able to receive their free flu vaccine at the majority of our community pharmacies this winter. For a full list of participating pharmacies click here: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/pharmacy/seasonal-flu-vaccinations/

To find out what services your community pharmacy offers, please visit: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/pharmacy/

Social distancing and PPE use remains in place across all primary care services for the safety of patients and staff. Healthcare professionals seeing patients face-to-face to assess or provide treatment will be using the appropriate PPE and screens are in place at some counters and reception areas.

Please remember to wear a face covering when visiting any healthcare facility.