Coronavirus: Oldham Chief Clinical Officer offers words of reassurance in troubled times
Date published: 18 March 2020
Oldham CCG’s Chief Clinical Officer Dr John Patterson
The NHS Oldham CCG’s Chief Clinical Officer, Dr John Patterson, has sought to reassure local people as the Coronavirus crisis shows no sign of easing.
The latest figures released on Monday stated that there were 10 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Oldham at that point.
Due to patient confidentiality there’s no word on where the people affected live, but they're likely to be recovering at home.
GP surgeries and the Royal Oldham hospital appear to be coping at present.
Dr Patterson said: “All 43 surgeries are open and operating.
“We want to use different methods for contacting medical staff however, and that includes digital contact such as video consultations.
“Some surgeries are operating a triage service, which means those with more serious illnesses are more likely to see senior medical staff.
“Because the CCG has worked hard over years to co-ordinate care for those with current conditions, we are better prepared than in other areas.
“With regard to the hospital, it's managing well.
“The hospital is staffed mostly by local people, and the community know this.
“They have heeded warnings not to go to A+E with coronavirus symptoms.”
It’s a hugely worrying time for everyone, but the advice from Dr Patterson remains clear.
He added: “This changes often, but currently, people need to self-isolate for seven days.
“If multiple family members are affected, then household should be isolated for 14 days.
“If you still have symptoms after seven days, call 111, UNLESS it's just a cough. That is likely to last longer. It's safe to go back to work if you just have the cough.
The virus is not airbourne, it is droplet based, which means it is tranferred via coughing and sneezing, It means the virus can live on infected surfaces such as door handles and work surfaces for a limited time.
Many Oldhamers have been asking the Chronicle about the process for testing for the virus. Dr Patterson explained the current advice.
“At the moment, anyone who needs hospital admission or is a ‘special case’ will be tested. Extension of the testing programme is currently being considered"
“There are plans to extend testing.”
Of course many of the most vulnerable presently are the elderly, with some having little or no access to the internet or digital processes.
Dr Patterson added: “We want to encourage families and friends to share skills.
“Younger family members can help older members with digital skills.
Those who need face-to-face, urgent medical attention will get it.”
Finally, Dr Patterson warned against misinformation gaining hold and creating unnecessary panic in these worrying times.
He added: “We want to tackle false rumours.
“You are not more likely to get infected from an elderly person, and panic buying is not necessary. We will not run out of food."
For further NHS Coronavirus guidance, click here
The Oldham Chronicle will continue to give you the latest local advice throughout the pandemic. This will include safe ways to help vulnerable relatives or friends.
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