Regular healthcare needs don’t stop during a pandemic. But some general practices in Western Australia are reporting a drop in patient numbers, believed to be related to COVID-19 fears.
WA Primary Health Alliance’s See Your GP campaign is designed to remind consumers of the importance of regular medical appointments and reassure them of the availability of safe, essential health care.
The campaign emphasises that it’s more important than ever for Western Australians to prioritise their health and get the treatment, prescriptions and screening they need.
GPs and the wider medical community are also worried that critical health conditions may go undiagnosed and untreated, resulting in life-threatening complications for some people.
WA Primary Health Alliance Chair and GP, Dr Richard Choong, said now, more than ever, people needed to stay in touch with their doctor.
“Our message is clear – we are here to help, and we will keep you safe.
“You can now visit your doctor online, on the telephone or in person and we will ensure that your health is our number one priority.
“Please, don’t put off visiting your doctor. If you maintain your regular doctor’s appointments, you can stay as healthy and well as possible.”
North Perth GP, Dr Belinda Wozencroft said while Australians had embraced social distancing, for some, this has translated into a real fear of attending their local GP if they are unwell or to follow up their long-term chronic health issues.
“GPs are working hard on two fronts to keep their patients safe. Firstly, consults via telehealth are being widely used for keeping in touch with patients, and many issues can be managed safely this way.
“However, not all health issues are amenable to telehealth and some people will need to come into their GP practices to be seen and examined.
“Practices are ensuring they are safe for patients and staff with readily available hand gel, ensuring patients can maintain a safe distance from each other, and careful cleaning.
The campaign also focuses on the importance of having chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and asthma regularly monitored, and not missing out on immunisations and regular health checks like those required during pregnancy.
General practice is open and safe to visit in person, and while some things might look a little different on arrival, changes such as social distancing in the waiting room, screens at reception, some staff wearing masks or being asked to wait in your car until your appointment time, are all designed to keep everyone safe and well.
If a prescription is needed, your GP can send a digital image of the prescription to your local pharmacy, to authorise dispensing, with some people also able to benefit from free home delivery.
So, don’t put off getting a check on your health, or the health of those you care for.
Your health matters, so #SeeYourGP.
