Face-to-face GP appointments remain 'vital', reassures Health Minister

Face-to-face GP appointments remain a 'vital part' of frontline healthcare services on Manx shores.

That's according to Health and Social Care Minister, Daivd Ashford, as government says surgeries will continue to offer appointments in person as well as over the phone or a video call.

Officials say fewer people attended medical practices during the pandemic to reduce the risk of infection and in line with safety guidance.

While in-person appointments were offered to those who needed to be seen, mobile devices and web cams allowed many patients to see and speak with their doctor from home.

Government believes the approach worked well and GP practices across the Isle of Man will continue to offer a variety of appointment options for their new normal.

Mr Ashford adds: "I can reassure patients that face to face consultations remain a vital part of the frontline service offered by our GPs.

"Many patients are happy to have a remote appointment, as it will save them a journey to the practice."

"Phone consultations won’t replace in-person appointments, but we expect them to become part of day-to-day general medical practice."

Practice staff will triage patients on the phone when they call, to ensure that a face-to-face appointment is offered when needed. 

Virtual consultations are also available and health queries of any kind can be made by patients, parents and carers via phone, the practice website or in person.

Patients who are seen at the surgery will be asked a number of questions by the receptionist, to establish whether any precautions are needed before they attend. 

These include asking if the individual has any Covid-19 symptoms and whether they have travelled off Island in the last 14 days, or had continuous contact with someone who has.