NHS 'still open' in Black Country despite Tier 3 restrictions, chiefs say
Health chiefs have reassured patients in the Black Country that the NHS is "still open" despite the area being under Tier 3 coronavirus restrictions.
Experts made the plea after people in the region – who were in need of treatment – stayed away from the NHS during the first lockdown due to virus fears.
It comes as chiefs in the Black Country and West Midlands continued to urge people to remain vigilant over the pandemic during the festive period.
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Dr Ian Sykes, chairman of NHS Sandwell and West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: "I want to remind patients that GPs, hospitals, maternity services, and community and mental health services are continuing to see patients for both new and ongoing conditions in safe environments, and people who need healthcare help or advice should continue to seek it.
"Our NHS services might look slightly different than they did before, with fewer people in waiting areas and people wearing a face covering, but we are still here for you."
GP practices are among the services which are operating differently – with patients asked to avoid visiting the practice in person unless they've been instructed to by their GP.
Dr Anand Rischie, GP and chairman of Walsall CCG, added: "Sadly we are still seeing deaths and a high number of new cases in the community today which could result in hospital admissions in next couple of weeks.
"Please be careful and make a positive choice to protect yourself, your family and your whole community. Doing the right thing now will make a difference later and all the core safety messages are still the most important. Wash your hands, cover your nose and mouth and keep at least a two-metre distance."
People with symptoms of coronavirus should avoid visiting NHS premises and should instead self-isolate and book a test.
