RCGP Comment on the GP Newspaper Survey Re. Flu Hotline
4th August 20009
RCGP Chair Prof Steve Field voices support for
the National Pandemic Flu Service.
“Despite there being a very small number of
GPs who responded to the [GP Newspaper] survey, it nevertheless
reflects their real concerns," he said.
“The introduction of the National Pandemic Flu
Service is supported by the BMA and the Royal College of General
Practitioners. The algorithm for deciding whether someone is
eligible for Tamiflu has safety as its core principle. It is also
important to remember that the flu line is not a diagnosis line but
a means for those who develop influenza-like illness to access
antiviral treatment.
“The algorithm was screened by GPs and other
experts. It is very clear that patients with other conditions and
pregnant women should be advised to contact their GP. It is
also clear that patients should seek advice from their GP should
their condition deteriorate in any way.
“The National Pandemic Flu Service has taken a
lot of pressure off GPs previously swamped by calls from worried
patients. This has freed up a lot more of GPs’ time to
concentrate on patients whose conditions are worsening or have
developed complications as well as those people continuing to
access their GP for advice and treatment for other conditions.
“The RCGP has agreed to liaise with the
National Pandemic Flu Service so that concerns of GPs can be raised
and to ensure that safety remains at the centre of everything it
does.”