We are reaching out to you with an update in respect to the practice fully re-opening.
We understand our re-opening will be good news as patients seek to have problems seen to, and to return to their normal routine, BUT we really need to ask for your patience and understanding whilst we work through this challenge.
It will take some time before services return to what you previously experienced as normal.
There will be several new stresses as we try and function around a limited PPE stock, employ adequate social distancing measures and work in the safest way possible for our staff and our patients.
This means our practice will look and function a little differently and will have personalised measures we will share with you and ask you to comply with to help us keep on track.
Our return to ‘normal’ will be gradual, and so there will be some prioritising of patients with problems which we’d ask you to understand. Guidance released over the last week suggests “phases” which are dependant on several factors – including the UK Covid Threat Level. We are still at Level 4 and so are advised against aerosol generating procedures (spirometry etc), minor surgery procedures such as injections, until the threat level reduces further. This means we are restricted to what treatments we can offer when you attend.
There may be times when we choose to call or video triage you as opposed to bringing you to the surgery and so help to limit your travel and exposure.
Initially our receptionists, who generally bear the stress of communications, will be working even harder than usual to speak to the patients who need them and so please be kind as they’ll be doing their best to work through a tremendous number of calls.
The Doctors and nurses may be dressed differently and your journey through the practice will be different but this will only be through necessity, not through choice.
Infection control has always been a top priority for our practice and our processes are designed so that when you receive care, it’s both safe and comfortable. Our practice follows infection control guidelines set by the governing bodies and are up-to-date with all the new guidance that has been issued.
You may see some changes when it is time for your next appointment. We made these changes to help protect our patients and staff. For example:
All initial contact with the practice will be via ASKMYGP
Before being offered an appointment.
- Our practice will communicate with you beforehand to ask some screening questions. You’ll be asked those same questions again at your appointment
- We have hand sanitiser that we will ask you to use when you enter and exit the practice.
- Appointments will be managed to allow for social distancing between patients. That might mean that you’re offered fewer options for scheduling your appointment.
How you can help:
- With the exception of children and patients with carers, patients should come alone
- A distance of at least 2 metres must be observed if another patient is present in the practice
- If you show symptoms following appointment booking, you should contact the practice by phone
- Please do not arrive early to the practice. If necessary, you should wait outside the practice in your vehicle.
- Please do not attend without an agreed appointment.
As we continue to work through this pandemic, we will keep in touch via our website so that all our patients understand how our progress will affect future care and appointments.
Thank you
M Sharkey
Practice Director
