FORTH VALLEY GPs have reassured patients that they are continuing to consult with as many people as possible.

Although many lockdown restrictions are easing, they are still having to follow strict national health and safety guidelines which require ongoing physical distancing in the waiting rooms and enhanced cleaning between patient visits.

This limits the number of patients they can see each day and means that appointments have to be staggered throughout the day.

However, local GPs leads stress that quieter waiting rooms do not mean they are not continuing to support local patients and their families during the ongoing pandemic.

Dr Scott Williams, NHS Forth Valley’s deputy medical director for primary care, said: “We are aware of complaints surrounding GP services and are sorry that some people feel it is difficult to contact us, but we really are doing our best to respond to as many calls as possible.

“NHS Forth Valley is continuing to experience high demand for health and social care services with GP workloads increasing by approximately 20 per cent compared to before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“In addition, some GP practices have been affected badly by Covid-related absence either with illness, shielding or quarantining and even one or two clinical staff having an unplanned absence of l0 days or more can cause major problems providing a service.

“We know this has been a hugely challenging time for everyone and GPs and their staff really appreciate the support and understanding of their patients during the ongoing pandemic.”

Although not all GP practices are working in exactly the same way, all local GP practices in Forth Valley remain open and anyone who has concerns about their health, particularly symptoms which are worrying them, should seek help.

Anyone who needs more urgent healthcare advice or treatment can also call NHS 24 on 111, day or night, as staff can arrange for them to speak to a local healthcare professional.