Washington GP surgery moves all appointments to telephone appointments 'to secure staff and patient safety'

The Galleries Medical Practice, Washington, made the announcement on Wednesday, March 11, just days after Public Health England confirmed one diagnosed case of coronavirus in Sunderland.

In a statement, the surgery said: “We have taken the decision to move all appointments to telephone appointments.

“We are not saying patients can't be seen we simply need to reduce unnecessary movement and ensure all patients are triaged first.

“We kindly ask that you do not attend the surgery without speaking to a clinician first. All patients that have booked appointments will be contacted.

“We have not taken this decision lightly and understand this may be frustrating but patient and staff safety is of the highest importance to us.”

Pennywell Medical Centre in Sunderland has also undergone a thorough clean this week as a "precautionary measure” following the patient’s diagnosis.