Worksop’s Aurora charity says cancer patients can see GPs safely
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Debra Fores, manager at Aurora Wellbeing Centre in Worksop, says many cancer patients are suffering ‘increased levels of anxiety and worry’ about Covid-19 infections.
However she and GPs across the district say people must ‘make contact and follow up any concerns they have’ over cancer-related issues.
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Though the risks around coronavirus infection have forced GPs to suspend many face-to-face GP visits cancer-related consultations are now being done in a safe environment.
Doctors have stressed that GP practices across Bassetlaw remain open and anyone with a health concern should contact their local practice where they will be assessed either online or by telephone.
If a patient without coronavirus symptoms needs to be seen in person they will be - without risk of infection.
Doctors say ‘this is particularly important for patients that have more urgent health issues, such as suspected cancer symptoms’.
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Aurora’s Debra Fores said: “Now more than ever people affected by a cancer diagnosis need our help and support to deal with increased levels of anxiety and worry and the impact of Covid-19.
“We are aware that the number of people visiting their GP for cancer related issues is down and we urge people to make contact and follow up any concerns they have.”
Dr Eric Kelly, a local GP in Bassetlaw and chair of NHS Bassetlaw Clinical Commissioning Group, said it was ‘very important’ that patients and the public were aware the majority of NHS services continued to operate as usual.
He added: “We want to reassure people that accessing NHS services for non-coronavirus medical issues is highly important and that includes cancer-related issues and symptoms.”
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“The health needs of our patients is of paramount importance and it is vital that patients continue to seek advice from health and care professionals such as GPs, nurses and pharmacists, as well as emotional and practical support from organisations like Aurora.”
Though Aurora was forced to suspend many of its activities in March – such as beauty therapies and exercise classes – emotional support is still available through its telephone and Skype counselling service – and support continues for existing clients who require ongoing help with a variety of issues.
Anyone affected by a cancer diagnosis including family, friends, carers, or those who are socially isolated or vulnerable should continue to contact Aurora on the telephone on 01909 470985.
Help and support including emotional and practical help is ongoing as well as confidential health needs assessments with one of the charity’s wellbeing practitioners - either by telephone or video calls.
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People are being urged to get in touch Monday – Friday between 9am- 5pm.
For more information visit Aurora Wellbeing Centre Bassetlaw website HERE
For the latest information on services and support Follow Aurora on Facebook HERE or on Twitter HERE