GP practices are going to be open for telephone appointments on Good Friday (10 April) and Easter Monday (13 April). Pharmacies will also be open but may have different opening hours.

Dr Kiren Collison, GP and Clinical Chair of Oxfordshire Clinical Commissioning Group said: “Due to the current coronavirus pandemic we are expecting the long Easter weekend to be a particularly busy time for the NHS.

“We hope that by keeping GP practices and pharmacies open in this way we will be able to continue to provide care to those who need it and alleviate some of the pressure on the healthcare system at this time.”

If you do have a medical problem that is not related to coronavirus please contact your GP. All GP appointments will initially be on the telephone. The GP will do all they can to help you over the phone – however, should they feel the need to see you face to face for an examination, you will be invited to the surgery for review. Do not go into your GP practice in person without prior agreement. Please use these services responsibly and appropriately to ensure people with the most need receive care during the pandemic.

If you have coronavirus symptoms you should stay at home and self-isolate for seven days. Others in the household should self-isolate for 14 days. You can visit NHS online and use the 111 coronavirus service to get support and advice. Only call 111 if you feel you cannot cope with your symptoms at home or you do not have internet access; if needs be you may be directed to a COVID-19 clinic in the community. This approach will free up help for those who most need it.

If you need health advice when your GP surgery or pharmacy is closed call NHS 111 to get advice on local services which are open.

You can also visit NHS choices at www.nhs.uk

Emergency Departments (A&E) and the 999 emergency ambulance service provide vital care for life-threatening emergencies, such as loss of consciousness, suspected heart attack or stroke, severe breathing difficulties or severe bleeding that cannot be stopped.  In these extreme cases call 999 immediately.

Choosing the right NHS service will help get you the best advice and reduces pressure on A&E and GP services, freeing them up to help those who need it most during the coronavirus pandemic.