GPs offering pulse oximeters to those vulnerable to COVID-19

GPs are offering devices that monitor oxygen levels and pulse rate to those that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19.

Patients or their carers can use the pulse oximeters at home and if the readings show oxygen levels are starting to fall, the patient can be referred to hospital to get the necessary treatment.

Dr Farrukh Javid, GP at Rastrick Health Centre and Calderdale’s clinical lead for Calderdale’s oximetry service said: “If you have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 and are over 65 years old or in a clinically at-risk group, your GP may provide you with a pulse oximeter.

The devices are very easy to use and allow us to monitor oxygen levels in a person’s blood. If the levels start to drop below safe levels, you can be referred to the hospital earlier to get the treatment you need as soon as possible. So far, GP practices and care homes in Calderdale have received over 1,300 oximeters to be made available to local people.''