ONE of Bracknell's best-rated GP surgeries said they 'might close their doors' again following a sharp rise in Covid-19 infections.

Crown Wood Medical Centre in Bracknell, who scored highly in the 2021 GP Patient Survey, said they are thinking of sticking to serious face-to-face appointments only.

The practice, which saw 92 per cent of patients say it was very good and 36 per cent say it was fairly good, saw the highest score given to any Bracknell GP surgery.

Practice manager Vijay Mallipeddi hinted at possibly closing the site to reduce the number of patients coming through its doors.

READ MORE: Bracknell GP practice respond after being named 'BEST' in area by patients

She said: "We are thinking of closing our doors. I want to keep our clinicians and staff as safe as possible. We would continue face to face appointments but we'd encourage patients to use the e-consult website online before calling for an appointment.

"We will also continue with face coverings being mandatory to keep patients and staff safe."

Other GP surgeries in Bracknell Forest have said they will continue to enforce face coverings inside the surgery for patients.

England’s Chief Nurse has today reminded the public that everyone accessing or visiting healthcare settings must continue to wear a face covering and follow social distancing rules.

However, Public Health England’s infection prevention control guidelines and hospital visiting guidance are set to remain in place for all staff and visitors.

Ruth May, Chief Nursing Officer for England, said: “Face coverings and social distancing measures will remain in place across healthcare settings so that the most vulnerable people can continue to safely attend hospital, their GP surgery, pharmacy or any other healthcare settings for advice, care and treatment.

also read: Bracknell's best and worst rated GPs in 2021 Patient Survey

“And it is important for the public to continue to play their part when visiting NHS and care settings to help protect our staff and patients, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to infections.

“As restrictions are lifted in many places on Monday everyone has a part to play in helping to control Covid by getting vaccinated and acting responsibly.

“It is vital that in healthcare settings, we do all we can to reduce the risk of infection for those working in our services and those who need our care.”