North Harbour Medical Group

Key Message – Covid-19

Posted on:

Over the last few months you are likely to have noticed a difference in the way things are being done in general practice as we manage coronavirus (Covid-19).

We want to start off by saying thank you.

Thank you for adapting so quickly to these new ways of working – it has been the drastic, yet fundamental, change needed to ensure the safety of you and our staff.

To slow down the spread of coronavirus, we have worked to reduce the number of people coming into the practice by using online consultation systems like e-Consult (on this website), telephone appointments and video consultations.

Our top priority is, and has always been, to keep you and our staff safe while ensuring you get the care you need. This is why we ask you to continue what you have been doing to access your GP service.

Please do not visit the GP practice without an appointment.

  • Primary care is still open and we encourage people to get in touch for any health concerns that cannot be dealt with by the individual, their family or friends or the local pharmacy.
  • Routine vaccinations and immunisations are important and are available at the practice. We are working towards reintroducing other services, but have continued to undertaking cervical cytology; phlebotomy; ECGs; Vit B12; Depo Provera and some other essential injections.
  • We are yet to reintroduce minor surgery;
  •  ear irrigation or spirometry as these are AGP procedures, which are currently deemed unsafe whilst Covid-19 is still prevalent.
  • Our Nursing team are still undertaking annual reviews for those with Long Term Conditions although some of these will be via telephone/video consultations.
  • Please only visit the surgery in person if you have an appointment.
  • If you think you need to see a doctor please call the practice to speak to a clinician or use e-consult via the practice website.
  • If you need to be seen face-to-face then you will be given an appointment to come to the practice.  Our clinical staff will be wearing PPE when seeing patients and we would ask that all patients wear a face covering when attending the surgery.
  • This change is happening to help keep staff and patients safe.
  • We want to discourage people queuing outside a GP practice and waiting in  the waiting area, to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
  • Coming in for a booked appointment means you will be seen promptly.
  • Staff will clean down areas before your arrival to keep you safe.
  • If you have coronavirus symptoms DO NOT come into the practice– self isolate and seek help via   NHS 111 111.nhs.uk or go online to book a test or contact 119 who will be able to help you.
  • Please follow the Government guidelines as these are constantly changing.