Changes at surgeries

Patients at GP surgeries across Monklands are being reminded that the changes put in place due to Covid-19 “will be in place for the foreseeable future”.

NHS Lanarkshire has developed a new information video to explain what now happens for people needing to visit its 100 practices across the county – including the fact that most appointments will now be by telephone or video consultation.

Health board officials say: “Patients will only receive a face- to- face appointment when necessary – for example, when a physical examination is needed or if tests need to be carried out.

“A f t e r y o u r initial assessment by telephone, practice staff will advise what is most appropriate for you, [ which] may be another service [ such as] self-care, dentist, community pharmacy or optician.

“Measures will be in place to ensure safety and physical distancing – for example, reduced capacity in waiting rooms, one- way systems, hand sanitiser and face coverings.”

The video can be seen at www. nhslanarkshire. scot. nhs.uk/services/gp/