If the pandemic is over why can’t I book a face to face GP appointment ?
The pandemic is not over.
GP practices are open but ae working differently inorder to protect patients and staff.
In order to protect the most clinically vulnerable people who are in contact with our health services, some physical distancing requirements remain in place.
How the practices working now ?
Most practices are using a “Telephone First” service.
This allows the team to assess patients over the phone and consider who needs to be seen in person and when a telephone consultation or video may be appropriate. This helps to ensure that everyone gets the type of appointment they need, and that people don’t have to travel to the surgery if they don’t need to.
In many cases the issue can be as effectively managed with a telephone consultation rather than a face to face meeting.
If you need to attend the practice for examination you will be given an appointment.
Why do reception staff ask personal questions?
GP reception staff are vital members of the practice team and treat all information as confidental.
They ask questions to ensure thar patients are directed to the best support, within and outwith the practice.
They are trained to ensure patients are sen by the most approprate member of the practice team and ensure GPs can prioritise the patients with the greatest clinical need.
