- Anecdotal evidence that patients with chronic diseases such as heart disease may not be contacting their GP as they would normally.
- ICGP reassures the public that their General Practitioner remains open to help them with their non-COVID-19 medical concerns as well as COVID-19 symptoms.
The Medical Director of the Irish College of General Practitioners, Dr Tony Cox, has reassured patients and the public that General Practice remains open, despite the current COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
Dr Cox said “A patient delaying consultation with their GP may subsequently lead to a more serious clinical issue”.
Dr Cox said: “We ask our patients to please phone us initially to discuss their medical problem. The doctor will perform an assessment over the phone and assist in a number of potential ways. Many problems can be resolved over the phone or by video consultation.”
He added: “Some problems can be helped by the secure transfer of a prescription to the pharmacist. Others may need referral to other services.”
“A final group may need to see a doctor in person. For this group, the doctor will perform a safety assessment in order to ensure that the consultation can take place in a safe environment. This can offer the patient, the doctor and the practice staff the maximum level of safety possible.”
Dr Cox said: “We ask the public to please understand that whilst General Practice has changed its delivery of patient care during this COVID pandemic, nevertheless we remain open and available to our patients. Please contact us with your medical concerns as early as possible in the course of your illness in order to ensure the best treatment.”
The Irish College of General Practitioners is the professional and training body for Irish GPs.
ISSUED BY: Aileen O’Meara, Communications Consultant ICGP.
Tel. 087 2239830. Email: media@icgp.ie
Dr Tony Cox is available for interview.