Don’t ignore medical issues during pandemic

NHS Tayside has moved to hammer home its message that people should seek medical help for noncoronavirus related issues if they need it.

Concerns have already been expressed that some residents may be ignoring potentially serious illness because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is thought they are worried about entering a medical setting in case they catch COVID-19 or are avoiding seeking advice because they don’t want to put more pressure on the NHS.

But medical director at NHS Tayside, Professor Peter Stonebridge, this week moved to reassure residents that help was still available.

He said: “We know that people are doing their best to stay at home as much as possible to help protect the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We also know that people may be anxious about whether they should contact health services for noncoronavirus concerns.

“We want to reassure you all that we are still here to help. Anyone who needs advice, treatment, or hospital care should still seek help through their GP, NHS 24 on 111, or 999. If it was urgent before COVID-19, it’s still urgent now.

“It is really important not to ignore the warning signs of serious conditions. Please seek help immediately if you have concerns about symptoms of a potential serious illness, such as cancer. You are not being a burden to us.

“It’s probably nothing serious, but it’s best to get checked, as we would rather see you earlier when illnesses are more easily managed and treated.

“We know people might be concerned about having to come in to a hospital or other healthcare site at the moment, but we want to reassure you that we have taken every precaution to keep our staff and patients safe and protect them from COVID-19.”