A High Wycombe surgery has been praised for the way they have treated their patients during the coronavirus pandemic.

Riverside Surgery, on George Street within the town, serves 9,875 registered patients and since the start of the pandemic, they have had to adapt in order to keep people safe, whilst trying their best to stop the spread of the virus.

Tess Watkins, a patient and a member of the surgery’s Patient Participation Group, thanked the surgery for its critical work.

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She said: “They have obviously put their patients first, despite the risks to themselves.

“Every patient that needed to speak to a doctor got a call, a video call or a face to face appointment. 

“This seemed to surprise some patients who thought the surgery might be shut due to the pandemic.

“Despite the heightened fear and anguish felt by many people, Riverside was always able to help. People that called in in the morning spoke to a doctor to determine what kind of help they needed and no one was turned away.

“Patients have been impressed with the responsiveness of the telephone and video consultation systems.

“They moved and adapted very quickly to cope with the new situation the pandemic created.

“They were brave but careful, giving patients confidence.

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“Many patients feel very well cared for and respected by all the medical and support staff and just want to say ‘thank you’.”

Dr Rashmi Sawnhey, GP Senior Partner at Riverside Surgery, added: “The success of this is due to our fantastic practice team (both clinical and non-clinical) and our patients who have been very understanding and patient.

Technology has been very helpful in supporting these changes.

“We are very mindful that all patients don’t have access to smart phones and patients with complex medical problems, especially the frail elderly, need face-to-face reviews.

“During this time we have continued to offer face-to-face appointments after triage, as well as home visits for the housebound as appropriate.”

Dr Raj Bajwa, Chair of NHS Buckinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group added his congratulations to the surgery.

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He said: “It’s always gratifying to hear that the hard work of our GP practices is being appreciated by patients and I would like to thank Riverside Surgery for their superb efforts in these extremely challenging times.

“I would also like to also extend my thanks to all the GP practices in Buckinghamshire who have worked so hard to serve their patients during this pandemic.”