CHESHIRE GP practices conducted nearly half a million face-to-face appointments during the first six months of the pandemic.

New figures also show that between April and September practices conducted more than 640,000 telephone and video appointments, processed more than 24,000 referrals and issued more than six million prescriptions.

South Cheshire GP Dr Andrew Wilson, who is the Clinical Chair of NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group, says the figures showcase the breadth of work in primary care to support local people.

"Covid-19 continues to be a challenge for us all – not least for those working in General Practice," he said.

"Despite the numerous challenges in recent months, including many examples of staff and GP sickness and self-isolation, General Practice has remained very much open for business to support local people.

"As these statistics clearly show, face-to-face appointments with a GP remain very much available for those that need them. However, to help keep everyone safe, you may now be asked to complete a phone, video or online consultation first."

Practicds are limiting face-to-face contact where possible to help prevent the spread of the virus and people may be asked to discuss their conditions over the phone or online first to assess the most appropriate treatment

GP surgeries have remained open from 8am to 6.30pm every weekday throughout Covid-19 and childhood immunisations, six-week mother and baby checks, cervical smears and the majority of routine work has taken place.

From April to September there have also been more than 20,000 new patients registered with Cheshire GP practices. More than 21,000 patients have newly registered for an online GP service.

Dr Wilson, a GP at Ashfields Primary Care Centre in Sandbach, added: "The rapid roll-out of digital appointments has enabled people to continue to be able to access GP advice while, at the same time, minimising the risk of the spread of the virus."