Not Happy

[blue1]

After receiving 3 letters and many texts from the government and NHS placing me on the most vulnerable/at risk/shielding list, I contacted the GP to see if my 3 monthly blood test could be done at home so I did not break the leaving the house rule (blood test necessary due to being on immunosuppressants for the last 20 years or so).

Apparently this is not possible, They have informed me that I have to attend a different surgery (one that has been closed to normal patients, called a 'cold hub') and have my test there. I am to be met at the door, temperature taken and given a mask I will then be taken to a room where someone in full PPE will take the blood sample.

I cannot help but be worried about the additional risk I have to take simply by leaving the security of my own home and I am not really sure if this is the right thing to do or not.

[Hidden]

If the doctors are suggesting that then I would do it as doctor's surgeries are more hygienic then people think. And they will have the equipment there if anything goes wrong. Better being safe then sorry especially with this Crisis. At least they are trying to reduce your risk of developing the virus. I would wear a mask before leaving your home or wrapping up your mouth to protect yourself. I am on the at risk list but I am only a mild risk.

[chrisb4]

I had to have a blood test this week and I am shielding. There was nothing to worry about. Just the nurse and me, no one else in sight. Mask on, temperature taken, alcohol gel used and followed the nurses instructions. Safer now than ever.

[Badbessie]

My wife as two weekly blood tests. All except one was done at GPs surgery. She felt safer at GPs. When the nurse visited our house she had been to 10 other houses before us. At least at the GPs we knew that we would be the first seen early in the morning after cleaning the night before.

[katieoxo60]

Apparently many surgeries have still been doing blood tests this way during lockdown & sheilding. But some patients have been given option to have tests at a later date. I would not think it is best in your case as all precautions are being taken to safe guard you.

[Jaybird19]

Its the getting there that is the problem, not the surgery..

[blue1]

Many thanks for all your support, I now feel much more confident about going to the surgery and am very happy with the precautions they are taking.

[Brikel]

I phoned my GP yesterday about this, as I’m due to have 3 monthly blood tests . I was told that they have extended it now to 6 months .

Better safe than sorry

Hope you are keeping safe and well

Brian