The Frome Medical Practice has announced today (March 11) that it will be moving to appointment only booking for blood tests and the Drop-In blood clinic will cease for the time being.

'We are taking this step as a temporary precautionary measure in order to protect our more 'at risk' and vulnerable patients,' says the surgery's Senior Partner Dr Helen Kingston. 'Blood tests will of course continue to be available but it means that patients now have to pre-book and can no longer simply turn up for the Drop-In facility,'

'I would wish to re-assure our patients that with the exception of the Drop-In blood clinic, all of our clinical and other services are open and working normally,' adds Dr Kingston. 'However, as we all understand, the situation nationally regarding the COVID-19 virus can change rapidly and I would urge patients to look out for updates on our website at www.fromemedicalpractice.co.uk and on our Twitter feed @fromemedpractic. We shall of course also ensure that our local media is kept updated with developments.'

In line with all other GP practices, the Frome Medical Practice has stated that if patients think that they may have the coronavirus, it is important that they stay away from surgeries, pharmacies and hospitals and instead contact NHS 111 at https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19 for advice. For patients with limited access to the internet, they should telephone the practice on 01373 301301