‘Some GPs still without masks’

GPS across Wales are reporting that they still have not received face masks, gloves or aprons to help protect them against coronavirus.

On Monday, March 9, Health Minister Vaughan Gething announced that personal protective equipment (PPE) would be handed out to all 640 surgeries in Wales by the end of that week.

They have all been sourced from a stockpile the Welsh Government has in place as part of its contingency planning for the NHS and social care.

But some doctors have said they are yet to be given this equipment, which as a result is affecting the way they deliver care to patients.

One GP said: “It’s clear that distribution of PPE to GPs is not of sufficient quantity or quality and is currently impacting on our ability to safely assess patients.”

Dr Phil White, chairman of BMA Cymru Wales’ GPs Committee said: “It’s concerning to hear that some GPs have not yet received personal protective equipment.

“PPE is a crucial part of current control measures for frontline staff, and I’d urge those who have not received supplies to contact their health boards urgently.”

Latest NHS advice urges people not to call 111 or go to GP surgeries or hospitals if they think they might have contracted Covid-19. The only people who are being told to call 111 are those who cannot cope with their symptoms at home, their condition gets worse or their symptoms do not get better after seven days.

Most GP surgeries are now operating a “triage” system which involves assessing patients over the phone initially.

Many are also offering patient appointments via video link so they do not have to attend in person, while some have suspended all routine appointment booking.

In response, a Welsh Government spokeswoman said: “Personal protection equipment is available for NHS staff in healthcare settings. NHS organisations can use established routes for accessing PPE supplies. In addition, specific supplies of PPE are being made available to GPs and pharmacists.”

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