Restrictions at GPs and pharmacies in Fife are being implemented on a case-by-case basis amid fears over the coronavirus outbreak.
Staff shortages and delays in processing prescriptions are being widely reported across the region, although healthcare staff at all of Fife’s surgeries are taking their own precautions – so anyone looking to access services is advised to check first.
Contigency plans are in place at Cadham Pharmacy in Glenrothes, where patients are being asked to knock at the front door as part of a ‘one in, one out’ operation.
The pharmacy’s 24/7 robot service is seeing prescriptions dispensed, but anyone who receives prescriptions through its delivery service is being asked to notify staff so delivery drivers can put protective measures In place.
Bernadette Brown, owner of Cadham Pharmacy, revealed that she had been stranded in Mexico following US travel restrictions, but she had managed to get a flight home via Canada.
However, the current situation is fast moving and affecting day-to-day business.
“We are already very short staffed already due to illness and the new isolation rules,” she said.
“None of the staff have been tested, but with everyone who gets a cough or a temperature being advise to self isolate, this has quickly impacted our workforce numbers.”
Meanwhile, at the North Glen Medical Practice in the town, patients are being advised that repeat prescription requests will be accepted by telephone or online only until further notice.
Patients have also been urged not to request additional quantities of medication, only the standard amount prescribed.
The Markinch Medical Practice revealed it will be contacting all patients who have an appointment to offer them a telephone consultation instead in a bid to limit numbers within the surgery.
The same is true at the Benarty Medical Practice and at other sites elsewhere, while Lochgelly Medical Practice is operating a triage system where anyone who needs a consultation can be assessed over the phone.
Other surgeries, such as Muiredge Surgery in Levenmouth, are not open to the public, with appointments happening over the phone.
If prescriptions are needed, they are being sent to a pharmacy of the patient’s choosing.
Many GPs are also suggesting that the normal 48-hour wait for prescriptions has been extended to 72 hours, given the demand on resources.
