Patients who don’t have coronavirus can safely access care – including scheduled appointments, vaccinations and maternity services.
AdvertisementThe plea comes alongside new findings that four in ten people are too concerned about being a burden on the NHS to seek help from their GP.
Seeking medical help is one of the four reasons that people can safely leave home, in line with government guidance.
The NHS is still there for patients without Covid-19 who need urgent and emergency services for stroke, heart attack, and other killer conditions.
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While NHS staff have worked hard to put in place measures allowing people to access care safely – such as splitting services into Covid and non-Covid. GPs, pharmacies, NHS 111 and accident and emergency departments in the area are still operating for those who need them.
Dr Amanda Doyle OBE, GP and Chief Officer for Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care System (ICS), said: “We are seeing people with serious medical conditions coming into hospital much later than they should have, causing them great harm.
“It’s really important that people seek medical advice as and when they normally would if they have health concerns.
“In hospitals, GP surgeries and health centres we are taking strict precautions to ensure both staff and patients remain safe. For example, most GPs are able to hold consultations over the phone or by video consultation.
“We want to reassure people that the NHS is here for you. Don’t leave your illness or condition until it is too late.”
Remember that:
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Have you been able to access medical help? Let us know your experiences in the comments below