How to book appointments

Due to the on-going risk of Covid 19 and the measures we have been able to put in place to minimise this, we have updated the changes to the appointment booking system. This is to protect YOU – our patients and our staff.

1) All patients should attempt self-care measures and where appropriate have consulted their local pharmacist. If an assessment is still required please CALL or EMAIL the surgery to explain the nature of your problem. Your information will be confidentially passed from the reception team to the clinical team. A phone call by a clinician will be made on the same day for assessment or advice. If a face to face appointment is necessary, this will be made for you.

2) For any face to face appointment made we remind you that you must NOT attend if you are unwell, awaiting a Covid 19 test result or self-isolating for any reason.

3) If you are unwell with Covid Symptoms please contact 111. If you have suspected or known Covid 19 we can provide advice or book you into a ‘hub’ which is located in Chelmsford and is designed to call and see patients face to face.

4) We are encouraging patients NOT TO DELAY any medical concern/query.

5) We are encouraging patients to continue to contact us for advice – WE ARE STILL OPEN and WORKING SAFELY. Investigations are being accepted and performed at the hospital when appropriate and referrals can still be made though both have obvious delays.

6) We are performing our usual phlebotomy clinics.

Why are you taking making these changes?
The national advice is for anyone who suspects they may be at risk of coronavirus to stay at home and complete the online coronavirus advice tool (https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19) or call 111. The UK government has asked GP practices to triage all face to face appointments over the phone first to minimise the risk of spreading the infection.

I want to see a clinician, what should I do?
Call the surgery to explain your problem or alternatively email greenwood.meds@nhs.net. The clinical team will review your concern and decide the most appropriate action – either by speaking to you on the phone, emailing you back or offering you a face to face appointment.

I have a skin lesion or mole that I am worried about – what should I do?
If possible, please take a picture of the lesion from 30 cm away and email to greenwood.meds@nhs.net the following details: Where is it on your body? How long has it been there? Has it changed in size/look? Is it bleeding or itching? Are you well in yourself?
On many occasions we are to provide a diagnosis just by an image. If we are not, we will offer you a face to face appointment in an appropriate time frame.

I already have an appointment booked but now have developed mild viral symptoms. What should I do?
Please DO NOT attend the surgery and instead cancel your appointment via the sms confirmation you should have received, via email (greenwood.meds@nhs.net) or calling the surgery. Please then complete the online coronavirus advice tool (https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19) or call 111.

What should I do if I am ill? Or if a family member is ill?
If you or a family member has an emergency health problem such as signs of a heart attack, stroke, severe difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding that won’t stop or severe injuries then call 999 or go to A&E. For children, this includes severe drowsiness, severe infections, a first fit, or swallowing something they should not have.
For anything else, review the NHS Choices self-help website, speak to your local pharmacist for advice or call NHS 111 which is available 24/7 for advice too. If you feel you need advice or treatment from your practice, see point 1 above – contact the surgery.

What will happen if I just turn up at the surgery wanting an appointment?
If you turn up in person at the surgery the reception team will gather the necessary information to pass to the clinical team.

How do I book a blood test?
To book at Greenwood please contact the surgery IF you have a hospital form or have already spoken to one of the clinical team who has asked you to get this done.
To book at a community clinic please call: 01245 516 963. Please note there can be a high call volume when ringing to book but an appointment time must be booked as WALK INS ARE NO LONGER ACCEPTED.
All children (under 16 years of age) who require a blood test will only be seen at Broomfield Hospital and you will need to call 01245 516963 to book.

What about home visits?
For patients that are truly housebound and cannot come to the surgery, a doctor will phone first to understand the problem, and visit if required.

We thank you for your patience and understanding during this time. We are working hard to protect our patients and staff whilst always striving to provide high quality care. Remember, it is vital that if you suspect you may have been exposed to coronavirus, you stay at home and call 111.
If you are asked questions about your travel history, it is vital that you answer truthfully. This is to protect yourselves, the public and all our healthcare staff.