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05/12/2018
Majority Of GPs Concerned About Increased Winter Workloads
Nine out of ten GPs working in Northern Ireland are concerned about their increasing workloads this winter and its affect on their ability to care for patients.
The Royal College of GPs (RCGPNI) published a member's survey on Wednesday 05 December, warning that practices will be under "intense strain" over the coming months.
95% of GPs agreed that their workload grows during winter, with 85% expressing concern over the issue.
Health Officials also warned that hospitals will face greater pressures because of conditions like flu.
RCGPNI Patient Group Chair Karen Mooney urged people to consider whether or not they need to see their doctor.
She said: "We can do our bit to help support our health service. Think about what you really need; think 3 Before GP. Can you care for yourself and manage minor ailments at home? Can you find the advice you need using safe and reputable online resources such as the NI Direct Stay Well website? Can you seek advice from your community pharmacist?
"We all have a responsibility to help protect our health services and to make sure that those who are the most ill and vulnerable in our society are able to access the care that they need."
Mrs Mooney added that despite the immense pressures on the health service, GPs should still be relied upon for support and treatment when needed, and "work very hard in challenging circumstances to meet the demand from patients and do what they can to care for us in the community".
RCGPNI Chair, Dr Grainne Doran, said: "GPs strive to provide the very best care to all of our patients. Over the winter period, there is no doubt that our workload hugely increases.
"For more minor conditions such as coughs and colds, patients can get great advice and over the counter medicines from local pharmacies. This will be faster and more efficient and will help ensure appointments with a doctor are available for those who need them most. But it is important to remember that if you think you need medical attention, or if symptoms don't improve, do not hesitate to seek medical advice."
(JG/CM)
The Royal College of GPs (RCGPNI) published a member's survey on Wednesday 05 December, warning that practices will be under "intense strain" over the coming months.
95% of GPs agreed that their workload grows during winter, with 85% expressing concern over the issue.
Health Officials also warned that hospitals will face greater pressures because of conditions like flu.
RCGPNI Patient Group Chair Karen Mooney urged people to consider whether or not they need to see their doctor.
She said: "We can do our bit to help support our health service. Think about what you really need; think 3 Before GP. Can you care for yourself and manage minor ailments at home? Can you find the advice you need using safe and reputable online resources such as the NI Direct Stay Well website? Can you seek advice from your community pharmacist?
"We all have a responsibility to help protect our health services and to make sure that those who are the most ill and vulnerable in our society are able to access the care that they need."
Mrs Mooney added that despite the immense pressures on the health service, GPs should still be relied upon for support and treatment when needed, and "work very hard in challenging circumstances to meet the demand from patients and do what they can to care for us in the community".
RCGPNI Chair, Dr Grainne Doran, said: "GPs strive to provide the very best care to all of our patients. Over the winter period, there is no doubt that our workload hugely increases.
"For more minor conditions such as coughs and colds, patients can get great advice and over the counter medicines from local pharmacies. This will be faster and more efficient and will help ensure appointments with a doctor are available for those who need them most. But it is important to remember that if you think you need medical attention, or if symptoms don't improve, do not hesitate to seek medical advice."
(JG/CM)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A very mild, but mostly cloudy day, although with some bright or sunny spells. It will be mostly dry in the morning, but a little patchy light rain or drizzle at times in the afternoon. Maximum temperature 14 °C.Tonight:A band of heavier rain will move east during the evening before clearing eastwards after midnight. then mostly dry through the early hours, but a little rain towards dawn. Minimum temperature 8 °C.
