Coronavirus forces Sheffield medical practice to change how patients book appointments

In a message sent by The Crookes Practice, which has been seen by The Star, patients have been told the online appointment booking system has been temporarily suspended.

The practice says this is due to the recent coronavirus outbreak, which has infected more than 70,000 people across China, with 1,771 deaths. There have been nine confirmed cases of the disease in the UK.

Instead, patients will now need to be triaged by a member of staff at the centre, who will decide if they need to come into the practice or seek medical assistance elsewhere.

The message read: “This is for the health and safety of everyone. Sorry for any inconvenience.”

It is not yet known if this new measure is city-wide. The Star has contacted NHS Sheffield CCG for comment.