York GP group ‘severely impacted’ by Covid testing difficulties

A York medical group says it staff absences caused by the difficulties in accessing Covid-19 tests is ‘severely impacting’ its clinical services.

Priory Medical Group, which runs nine GP surgeries across the city, said in a statement yesterday (Wednesday): “Due to local Covid testing difficulties, staff absence relating to self isolation is now severely impacting on our clinical services.

“We apologise to our patients for any appointments that have been cancelled in relation to this.

“We have escalated our concerns to NHS Vale of York CCG and will keep you updated.”

The group added: “We are doing what we can to continue to provide a safe service.

“We ask that are patients are understanding if an appointment gets changed. We hope the the swabbing backlog is cleared soon.”

It comes after the government announced that coronavirus tests in England will be rationed as it struggles to get to grips with soaring demand.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said an updated prioritisation list would set out who will be at the front of the queue.

This will prioritise NHS patients, staff, care homes and key workers – especially teachers – as the government grapples with a surge in demand.