Biddulph Doctors have explained how they have changed the way they work over the pandemic by using telephone triage and video conferencing to see more patients.

The local surgery explained how its service has changed in a post to its social media page earlier today (Thursday).

The surgery says it is now seeing more patients over the phone and through video calls due to high demand, but added that more than half of all appointments are now being delivered in person.

A spokesperson said: "To manage the high demand, practices are using telephone triage and video conferencing to see as many patients as possible, safely.

"The NHS is still here for you and general practice is open as usual, but we've needed to adapt our way of working. Face-to-face appointments are available when there is a clinical need for the individual to be seen.

"Did you know GPs have seen an increase of 8% in calls since the start of the pandemic? Even though call consultations have increased, more than half of all appointments are now being delivered in person, and this number is increasing.

"If you feel like you need a face-to-face appointment, please let your GP practice know. The NHS is open and here to help you."

They also acknowledged that some of the changes to how services have been delivered have been "frustrating" to some, but added that they are "working hard" to provide the "highest quality of care".

They continued: "Whatever your health concern, your GP will signpost you to the most appropriate professional to meet your needs and will offer you a face-to-face appointment if needed.

"We understand some of the changes to general practices has been frustrating to some patients. We are working hard to minimise impact on patients to make sure we provide the highest quality of care possible during these difficult times.

"General practices are open but are feeling the impact of COVID-19. We have a lot of demand on our services at the moment, so things are taking a little longer to do than previously.

"If you are visiting a GP practice for a face-to-face appointment, strict cleaning measures remain in place along with social distancing. Help us help you by attending your appointment on time to help keep our waiting rooms safe."