Leeds GP surgeries cancel walk in clinics amid Yorkshire coronavirus outbreak

Patients at the Guiseley and Yeadon Medical Practice have been informed that as of Wednesday, March 11, the walk in clinic is cancelled to 'minimise patient contact'.

Burton Croft Surgery in Headingley has followed the same measure, with the daily walk in service cancelled until further notice following advice from Public Health England (PHE).

Five cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Leeds, with the Yorkshire total now at 15.

A spokeswoman for the Leeds health and care system said: “GP practices in Leeds are taking measures to protect patients and their staff.

"This includes changes to the way appointments are booked, reducing face to face appointments and increasing telephone consultations."

Guiesley and Yeadon Medical Practice has also suspended online bookings, with all appointments first booked as a telephone consultation.

In a message to patients, the practice said: "Please be advised due to the current situation regarding the Coronavirus, from Wednesday March 11 we will no longer provide a Walk In Clinic.

"All appointments will be booked as a telephone consultation on the day to enable GPs to triage. GPs will then allocate any necessary appointments if patients need to be seen.

"Online bookings have been suspended. This is for the safety of both patients and staff and to minimise patient contact. If possible please request prescriptions online."

The measures come as a Leeds NHS trust says it is 'extremely well prepared' for the spread of coronavirus.

Leeds Teaching Hospitals has reassured patients that measures have been introduced to protect patients and staff while also ensuring services are available to the public "as normal."

What's the official advice?

Regular hand-washing is the single most important action individuals can take in the fight against Covid-19.

Anyone who thinks they have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) is advised to use the NHS 111 online service.

The Leeds health and care system spokeswoman added: "If you feel you need to speak to someone you can call NHS 111.

"Please do not go to your pharmacy, GP practice or hospital.

“We'd also like to remind people of the importance of regularly washing their hands using soap and water.

“To keep up to date with the latest advice please visit www.nhs.uk/coronavirus."