The campaign highlights the various ways to get in touch with your GP practice, explains how services are working and encourages people to use their pharmacy for minor ailments.
Dr Michael Choong from Woodlands Practice said, “Staff working in GP practices (primary care) are working extremely hard and providing more appointments than ever before. To make sure you get the right care at the right time and to manage the increased need for services, we have changed how we work. You will now find a wider team of specialists and professionals in your practice, all working together to help you. This larger team means your GP will have more time to treat those with complex needs who need them the most. The new roles include clinically trained physician associates, pharmacists, nurse specialists, social prescribers and others”.
Dr Taraq Waheed from Southborough Lane Surgery said, “We became GPs and health professionals to care for our patients. Our practice teams strive to deliver the same high-quality care whether a consultation is over the phone, online or in person. The pandemic put a huge strain on many things, including your GP practice. However, services remained open throughout, and patients were seen face to face when clinically necessary. The switch to telephone and online appointments as the first point of contact was based on national guidance around infection control and to keep patients and staff safe. We are continuing to do this as it means more people can be helped. Many of our patients prefer telephone or online consultations as they are more convenient and can fit around other commitments. Our focus is on making sure you get the best care for your needs, so you will be seen if this is clinically needed”.
Dr Maya Lasrado from Broomwood Health Centre said, “We know that phone lines are very busy as so many people need us, and this means that sometimes there are queues to get through on the phone. Please do keep trying as we are here to help you and if your need is urgent we can make sure you get seen by a local service the same day. If you don’t want to use the phone, you can request an appointment or ask a question using the NHS App or through the eEconsult system. Ask your practice for help getting started.
“You can also help reduce the demand for GP services by speaking to your high street pharmacist for advice on minor ailments. They will advise you to see a doctor if this is needed”.
For more information on the Bromley Primary Care Health campaign please visit www.selondonics.org/bromleyprimarycare.
Follow the campaign on social media using #YourPrimaryCare.