DON’T ABUSE OUR STAFF
DOCTORS WARN COVID PANIC PATIENTS:
A Paisley GP practice has issued a warning to patients after health workers were subjected to abuse during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Mirin Medical Practice on Glasgow Road sent out a message to all patients registered at the surgery, stating that they have a zero tolerance policy regarding abuse of their staff.
The text is understood to be in response to reception
staff working under increased pressure facing an influx of verbal abuse from patients phoning the surgery throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
GP surgeries across Renfrewshire are treating more patients remotely to reduce the risks of spreading Covid-19.
There has been an increase in cases reported of the virus as businesses and schools continue to reopen this month.
Currently, more than 200 people have died of coronavirus since the beginning of the pandemic in March,
The GP practice is operating on phone appointments and patients are advised to attend if told to by a member of staff.
Surgery bosses urged patients to be understanding of the new rules which they say has been a “challenging situation” for everyone.
The message sent out to patients registered at the practice read: “We are currently working very hard to deliver GP services to our patients.
“It is not possible for the surgery to operate as normal due to the various issues related to Covid-19.
“This is a new and challenging situation for everyone.
“We are disappointed our reception team are increasingly having to deal with unpleasant behaviour from some of our patients.
“We understand that people may be worried or concerned, however, we have a zero tolerance policy for abuse of our staff.”
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has recorded an increase in abusive behaviour towards staff since the beginning of the pandemic.
A NHSGGC spokeswoman said: “Our teams have worked tirelessly against Covid- 19 since March, they should not have to face a further struggle with violent and aggressive members of the public.
“We want to provide a safe workplace for all of our people, but we need the public’s help.
“All we ask is that visitors and patients and service users are respectful to our staff when you are visiting our sites.
“They are there to help, so please support them to continue to deliver the vital care our patients need.”
The Paisley Express contacted The Mirin Medical Practice but they declined to comment.