GPs to make call on visiting covid patients at home

Tuesday 20 July 2021

It is up to GPs to assess if they should visit a patient who is ill at home with covid, the Health Minister has said.

Asked in the States Assembly yesterday who should decide if and when a doctor or paramedic should visit someone suffering with covid at home, Deputy Richard Renouf said it would be for a GP to make an assessment in dialogue with his or her patient.

“I believe that it would be the GP who would assess the situation, with the patient, and if a visit is deemed necessary, of course, all protected measures would be taken,” he said.

The Deputy also outlined other services that a person who has covid and is isolating at home could access.

“The team and trace team maintain contact with cases that are in isolation and will offer help and advice,” he said.

“The Connect Me team is also able to give practical help, and we have nurses on our helpline who are able to give any medical advice that may be necessary at any time. 

“And, of course, should people feel that they need GP assistance, then they can call their GP.”

Express has asked the Government to clarify its advice to islanders with covid with severe breathing difficulties, and what triggers a referral to hospital, and is awaiting a reply.