People urged to see GPs as first port of call at Alert Level 2
Hawke’s Bay general practice (GP) is urging people not to neglect their health, or avoid seeing the doctor during Alert Level 2, but to leave the Emergency Department for emergencies only.
Health Hawke’s Bay medical director and Hastings Health Centre GP Dr Louise Haywood said "It’s really important that if people are experiencing a medical issue or change in their physical or mental health at Alert Level 2 that they continue to seek help from their GP – but that they do call first".
As an essential service provider, your GP remains open at all Alert Levels and is the best place to seek health advice when you’re sick.
“Your GP will work with you to determine whether you will be seen in the surgery or remotely over the phone or online.”
She said for patients that need to go into the surgery, steps are in place to keep those with Covid-19 symptoms apart from those who are visiting for non-Covid-19 concerns as well as strict physical distancing and hygiene measures.
“GPs want our community to know we’re still here and it’s still safe to visit us if you need to.”
She also reminded people that with Hawke’s Bay Hospital currently very busy, GPs provide an on-call service after hours that patients can call 24 hours a day.
“Please leave ED for emergencies only.”
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