![Dr Tracey Purnell and the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network are urging locals to keep their regular appointments with GPs and health services. Dr Tracey Purnell and the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network are urging locals to keep their regular appointments with GPs and health services.](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/3Bvg48w7KQnmsaxHKRpvfes/3463fa9d-446c-4fb8-990e-37e2987c8f70.jpg/r0_0_3840_2159_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
General practitioners, pharmacists and other health care providers across the Murrumbidgee region are calling for people to continue maintaining their routine health checks.
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While people are encouraged to stay at home to stop the spread of COVID-19, some people are cancelling routine check ups and appointments which may put them at greater risk.
GP Dr Tracey Purnell said providers around the region are seeing a decline in patient numbers are there are very real concern for people's health.
"We all know how important it is to practice physical distancing and to stay at home to reduce the transmission of coronavirus, but accessing health care and receiving ongoing medical support for existing medical conditions are acceptable reasons for you to leave home," Dr Purnell said.
"If you have a chronic health condition requiring regular management, it is important you continue to receive the care you need.
"Equally important is consulting your GP if you notice something change or you have a health concern.
"Ultimately, maintaining regular health checks, during this time will help keep you well and out of hospital.
Chair of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners - Rural Associate Professor Ayman Shenouda said health care providers were safe to visit.
"All healthcare providers are practicing excellent infection control measures to ensure patients are in a safe environment, and some appointments can even be done over the phone," Dr Shenouda said.
"With both individuals and healthcare providers both following the national recommendations of good hygiene, social distancing and personal protection procedures, the risk of catching the virus while you're visiting your health providers is minimal.
"I would encourage people to call their local practice or healthcare provider to see if your appointment can be done over the phone or if you need to come in person," he said.