Local doctor echoes PM’s call for people to continue using NHS services during lockdown
The advice comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that the nation would experience a second lockdown to stop the rapid spread of coronavirus.
During this announcement, the PM stressed that people should not be put off from accessing the care and treatment they need to stay well.
Unlike the first lockdown period in March and April, much more of the NHS will remain open, such as diagnostic services, including scans and blood tests, some pre-planned surgery, and ongoing cancer care.
While the rest of the country goes back into lockdown, the NHS, just like the first time around, will remain open for those who need it. GP appointments will be available and, although most will be happening in a virtual format in order to comply with social distancing, face-to-face consultations remain available if your doctor or nurse feels it is required in order to make a fuller assessment.
Dr. Grabham, added, “This goes for appointments at the hospital too, and I would like to offer the reassurance that the hospitals in our region are safe places to be."
The healthcare professional is keen to reassure people, sharing that no person should put off attending their appointments. Especially if it relates to a serious condition, such as cancer.
Along with a request to take care of our physical health comes one to not ignore the signs of poor mental health, some of which may become more apparent during the four-week lockdown.
Dr. Ruth is encouraging everyone to take the opportunity to exercise outdoors, which is permitted, as much as possible to help us manage our mental health.
Services to support mental health across the region remain open for people in need of help, however, some may have moved to a telephone-based model of care.
Information on what services are available, as well as how to access each one at the current time, can be found online by visiting the website of Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust.
Emergency Care at the Great Western Hospital, the Royal United Hospital, and Salisbury District Hospital will be available around the clock for those with the most serious injuries and illnesses.
However, people with more minor health conditions are advised to seek help elsewhere from services such as NHS 111, which is available online and over the phone, and local pharmacies, many of which can provide one-to-one consultations without the need for an appointment.
People can find information on NHS services near to where they live by using the locator tool on the BSW CCG website.
Visit www.bswccg.nhs.uk to find out more, as well as to stay up-to-date with the latest news on local healthcare.
