Ryedale residents who need Covid-19 tests urged to book on-line

The North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and health and care partners has thanked local residents for doing the right thing and getting tested when they exhibit Covid-19 symptoms – a new continuous cough, a fever or a change in sense of taste or smell.

However, to ensure the best healthcare for everyone, it is essential that patients who have symptoms access care in the most appropriate way.

To learn more about Covid-19, including symptoms and how to self-care, people should access the dedicated NHS website https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ or the Government website https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus not their GP practice or local hospital.

To get information about testing, including the opportunity to order a test if needed, patients should use the established websites if at all possible. The NHS website provides advice on who should seek a test (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/testing-and-tracing/get-a-test-to-check-if-you-have-coronavirus/) or people can go directly to the Government website to book a test (https://self-referral.test-for-coronavirus.service.gov.uk/antigen/name). People who do not have access to the internet can call 119 to arrange a test. Neither GP practices or hospitals are able to arrange or undertake tests for members of the public .

Dr Charles Parker, North Yorkshire CCG Clinical Chair, said “Hospitals and GP practices are working hard to be able to deliver the maximum services possible following the necessary changes imposed by Covid-19. To help with this recovery, please book coronavirus testing using the national testing website if you develop new symptoms.

“Please continue to protect yourselves, your loved ones, and the NHS by following the national guidance summed up in Hands, Face, Space”