HEALTH chiefs have reassured the public that there are 'no plans' to close GP practices over coronavirus.

Dr James Thomas, clinical chair at NHS Bradford district and Craven clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), said the surgeries are looking at how they can best deliver services at this time with all patients treated with equal priority. 

While surgery doors will remain open, Mr Thomas did say there may be changes to the way they are offered appointments.

Mr Thomas explained: “There are no plans to close GP practices at this current time.

"GP practices are working hard and are looking at different ways that they can deliver services during this time. The priority is to make sure that they continue to be able to meet the needs of their patients and communities, especially the most vulnerable, whilst maintaining the wellbeing of staff. Patients may see some changes to the way that their appointments are delivered and may be offered telephone or video consultations where appropriate.

“Everyone can do their bit to help stop Coronavirus spreading. This includes continuing to wash hands regularly and sneezing or coughing into a tissue and then putting used tissues in the bin straight away.

“People are advised to stay at home for seven days if they have either a high temperature or if they have a new continuous cough, which means you have started coughing repeatedly. Please do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. If you live with other people, you should stay at home for 14 days from the day the first person got symptoms."

The latest advice is particularly important for people who are aged 70 or over, have a long-term condition, are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

Mr Thomas added: “I would urge people to read the latest, trusted information which can be found online at nhs.uk/coronavirus.”