Dear Courtfield Patients,
Due to the expected upsurge in Coronavirus cases over the next few weeks, we will be introducing a “triage system” for all patients requesting an appointment for assessment of any upper respiratory symptoms (sore throat, runny nose, cough and fever). This is to reduce the risk of infection to staff and other patients, in order to continue to provide a well staffed and safe environment for all of us.
The Reception team will arrange for one of the doctors to phone you to discuss your symptoms and where it is clinically appropriate to do so, advise you how to manage these symptoms at home, rather than attend the Practice.
If the doctor feels that a face-to-face consultation is necessary, then this will be organised- possibly at specific times of the day (to keep patients with upper respiratory symptoms separate from those with non-respiratory related symptoms).
We hope that you will agree that this is the best way to keep yourself, your family and our staff safe during the current Coronavirus outbreak.
Please note that we are unable to test for Coronavirus and all such requests should be directed to the 111 Helpline.
For the most up-to date information on all aspects of the Coronavirus outbreak, please see https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
Yours sincerely,
Dr Tim Ladbrooke
MA MB BChir DCH FRCGP