Bay doctors want people to address health concerns with your family doctor as usual

Bay of Plenty doctors want people to address health concerns with your family doctor as usual. Photo / File

Have any health concerns you would usually see your family doctor about?

Get in touch with your GP as normal, irrespective of the lockdown, that's the message coming from Bay of Plenty GPs.

Local general practices and health organisations are strongly urging people to get in touch with their family doctor and health service providers with any health issues as they usually would.

Since the lockdown, there has been a decline in patients contacting their local practices, a trend that is concerning Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation general manager of practice services Phil Back said.

"It is concerning because it likely means that people are holding back from making contact with their doctor about health matters, which could result in conditions worsening," said Back.

Some practices are now calling patients they know to have chronic health conditions to ensure they are doing okay.

Practices are operating based on advice and health guidelines designed to keep patients safe.

All are asking patients to get in touch by phone in the first instance so that doctors can triage cases. Next steps are then advised.

"General practices are there to attend to all health concerns and wellbeing issues - whether they be acute or exacerbated long-term conditions," said Back.

"We are also urging people to apply for a Community Services Card from Work and Income if their financial circumstances have changed, such as loss of income.

"This card will ensure your healthcare is subsidised and therefore cheaper for you."

The same was being seen across the Bay said Eastern Bay Primary Health Association clinical director Rachel Shouler and Ngā Mataapunga Oranga PHO clinical performance manager Carliza Patuawa.

"Practices are open, offering normal services and available to deal with all health issues," Patuawa said.

"We need to be looking after ourselves through this lockdown and beyond, so putting off calling the doctor isn't the answer."