Health board run GP surgeries in Connah’s Quay and Holywell change appointment making process in bid to limit spread of Coronavirus

To try to limit the spread of Coronavirus, two Flintshire GP practices managed by Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board have temporarily changed the way in which they are providing services.

Patients registered at St Mark’s Dee View Surgery in Connah’s Quay or Panton Surgery in Holywell who wish to book an appointment are being asked to telephone their surgery first.

Patients are being asked NOT to attend those two practices to make an appointment.

A Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board spokesperson said: “Patients will be asked a series of questions relating to their symptoms.

Guidance will be provided to them by either a receptionist and/or a GP/Nurse and an appointment will be made for them at the surgery if required.

We kindly ask patients that they do not go to the GP surgery if they have high temperature/fever and/or new continuous cough to self-isolate for 7 days.

Only ring 111 if symptoms worsen.”

For non-managed practices, patients can call their GP surgery, or check their website and social media feeds, for the latest guidance in making an appointment.

Shotton Lane surgery says it is currently restricting access to the premises in order to try and delay the spread of the coronavirus. 

“As a result, most consultations will be on the telephone, if the doctor feels they need to see you face to face they will arrange an appointment time for you. 

Access to the surgery is restricted to those with a booked appointment time.” A statement on the GP’s website states.

It goes on to say, “Sick notes and repeat prescriptions can now be requested on the telephone – prescriptions will be sent to your usual pharmacy. Routine appointments and home visits are suspended currently.”

Shotton Lane surgery and Queensferry medical practice have both suspended online booking of appointments.

Their websites state: “This is because we need to triage all appointments to mitigate the risks associated with potentially infected patients attending the Practice. To book an appointment please telephone the surgery.”

Coronavirus: People with fever or ‘continuous’ cough told to self-isolate – here is the latest advice from Public Health Wales

Also be aware of the general advice on hand washing and catching coughs and sneezes in tissues, and Guidance for schools: advice for parents or carers.

The new symptom checker can be found here: www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk