'NHS is Open' message as people put off GP visits
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A CAMPAIGN is being launched today urging people to seek medical help for non-coronavirus urgent health issues as people put off visiting their GP.
Worryingly, there has been a 72 per cent drop in urgent suspected cancer referrals, as fewer people are presenting their symptoms to their GP.
Figures also show a reduction in families bringing children in for immunisations.
And attendance at Accident and Emergency units and paediatrics in Scotland has halved during COVID-19.
As people try their best to reduce the strain on the NHS, there are also concerns of becoming infected with the virus and a misconception that doctors do not want to see patients.
The NHS is Open campaign urges people to contact their GP or local hospital if they have any urgent health worries.
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman said: "While we appreciate the public doing all they can to reduce the strain on our NHS at this challenging time, if people have serious health concerns or symptoms, it’s just as important as ever to seek immediate medical assistance.
"This pandemic does not mean we’ve stopped the fight against cancer, heart attacks or other serious health conditions.
"It is vital people continue to raise any health worries with their doctor at the earliest possible time and continue to attend regular check-ups and appointments when they are invited to do so."
Dr Carey Lunan, a GP and chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners in Scotland, said: "The NHS is open and it is safe.
"Appointments may feel a little different – they might happen on the phone or even by video-link. If people need to be seen face-to-face, we can arrange that too.
"A&E units are also still open and able to help. We are here for patients and we want to hear from anyone if they have an urgent medical problem."
The campaign encourages people to call their GP surgery, or 111 out of hours, if they have urgent health concerns. In emergencies, they should still dial 999.
