Claim that healthcare workers suffered abuse
HEALTHCARE workers at a Welsh health board have suffered verbal abuse from members of the public as they “remain under considerable pressure” due to the Omicron variant of coronavirus.
The claim has been made by a director of primary care at Hywel Dda University Health Board (HDUHB), which manages healthcare in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.
The health board has admitted that pressure brought about by rising cases of Omicron over recent weeks has had an effect on several areas of healthcare in the region, including GP practices and dental, pharmacy and optometry provision.
Patients have been reminded that due to increased pressures more GP appointments may have to be made over the telephone or online and if they do need to attend a surgery in person then they should do so alone wherever possible and while wearing a mask.
Most GP practices have online systems which allow patients to ask non-urgent questions about their health, while there are also online tools for people who need to order repeat medication.
However, the health board has admitted that staffing issues have had a negative impact. It said health bosses are working with primary care service providers in an effort to provide timely and appropriate care, but patients are asked to show “patience and kindness to staff who are working very hard”.
The latest seven-day coronavirus infection rate in Carmarthenshire is 704 per 100,000 population (based on the seven days up to January 12).
Meanwhile, the rate is 414.1 in Ceredigion and 482.4 in Pembrokeshire. In those seven days there were more than 1,300 new cases of Covid-19 in Carmarthenshire alone, with a positive test rate of more than 35%.
“We wish to reassure patients that GP services are still available to you,” said Jill Paterson, director of primary care, community and long-term care for HDUHB.
“When you contact your practice you will speak to the most appropriate person for your condition and if you need to be seen in person you will be given an appointment at the practice. It may take longer than normal to get through on the phone and you may wish to contact your surgery online if possible.
“We have had reports of verbal abuse targeted at primary care staff and this will not be tolerated – please remember they are working very hard to help their patients and we thank you for your patience at this time.
“Many conditions can be treated over the phone with advice and, if required, a prescription can be issued to your nominated pharmacy.
“Pharmacies offer a wide range of services including treatment for minor ailments. Please be aware that pharmacies are also operating at capacity and you may have to wait longer than usual.”