Message to Parents on Using Health Services During COVID

Sent on behalf of Daniel Flecknoe, Consultant in Public Health, Buckinghamshire Council

Dear all

Please see below a message for parents developed in collaboration between the local NHS, GP representatives and public health. Concerns have been raised that – for understandable reasons – people may be reluctant to take their children to see a doctor at the moment. Although school closures to all but key worker and vulnerable children is reducing the spread of many seasonal infectious diseases, it is important to remember that children will still become unwell with “normal” health problems during this period. Delays in seeking medical treatment can sometimes have serious consequences, so I would be really grateful if you would circulate the message below to all members of your school community.

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Message to parents on using health services during COVID

Please remember, A&E services and your GP practice are still open during the coronavirus outbreak.

GP surgeries are not allowing patients to directly book face to face appointments at the moment, to help stop the spread of the virus. They are, however, more than happy to discuss your case over the phone and to offer advice and guidance. In some cases they may be able to consult by video link, using mobile phones. If clinically appropriate, they can invite you to attend the surgery for an appointment at an arranged time.

It is really important to stay well at this difficult time, so please contact your GP surgery if your child is poorly with any symptoms that cause you concern. With so much attention on coronavirus at the moment, we are aware you may be concerned your child has a different illness or may be living with a worrying condition like asthma or diabetes.

So, if you are worried, please call your surgery to arrange a telephone consultation, or you can use the AskNHS app to book a call-back if you are 16 or over. This parent information form, produced by Barts Health and North-East London STP, gives very useful advice on when to use services like GPs, pharmacists, A&E and 999.

All your health service staff are still there for you, even though they are having to do things a little differently. Please don’t be afraid to use them if you are concerned about your child’s health.

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Many thanks

Daniel Flecknoe
Consultant in Public Health
Buckinghamshire Council

01296 387054
daniel.flecknoe@buckinghamshire.gov.uk