The NHS in Leeds is urging Leeds residents to attend their essential healthcare appointments during national restrictions, which were introduced on 5 November.
Dr Sarah Forbes, GP in Leeds and Clinical Lead for Cancer at NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said:
“If you’ve been invited for an appointment during the national restrictions, whether it’s at the hospital, in the community or at a local GP practice I’d urge you to attend.
“I know some people might be worried about accessing healthcare right now but it’s really important that you keep any appointments you have. We are working hard to make sure patients are seen in a safe and low risk environment and that our staff are safe so that services can continue to run.
“Women who are pregnant should also attend their antenatal appointments and I’d encourage them to seek advice if they’re worried about their baby. If your child has been invited for their immunisations, please make sure you go for these vital vaccinations, which will help protect your children from very serious diseases like measles.
“Similarly, if you’ve been advised to have a flu jab, please make sure you get one before flu season really starts next month. Your practice will be running flu clinics, or your local pharmacy can also provide them. You can check if you are eligible for the free flu jab by visiting the NHS website www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-influenza-vaccine.
“We know there is significant demand for NHS services and we’re working extremely hard to maintain as wide a range of services as possible despite increased demands from Covid-19. We may have to change the date of your appointment at a short notice, but we’ll try to avoid this as much as possible. If you have any symptoms of Covid-19, like a high temperature, a new continuous cough, a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste please do not attend your appointment. You will need to get in touch with the department or your GP practice to re-arrange the appointment.
“Please remember the NHS is here to help those with life or limb-threatening illnesses and injuries. It’s also important that people seek health advice and support from their GP should they be worried about any changes in their body.”
When accessing healthcare services, everyone can help protect themselves, other patients and staff by:
- Wearing a face covering
- Arriving on time
- Coming alone
- Cleaning your hands
- Following instructions which are available at the entrance of every healthcare facility.
This post is based a press release issued by NHS Leeds
Photo: Stock shot taken before the Covid-19 pandemic
