For people in high-risk categories for disease, and in a low-risk area for virus transmission, skipping doctors appointments could mean cancer and other serious diseases are detected late.

Doctor Dr Richard Griffiths of Grand Pacific Health said it's not worth risking your life to miss a health check.

"Screening programs save lives - early detection is one of the best ways to ensure a good outcome," Doctor Griffiths said.

"The screens pick up these nasties before the person even has symptoms.

"It's not patient's fault, sometimes the screenings can be uncomfortable, and it's understandable people are concerned about being out and about at the moment.

"But there's a reason we want to see people regularly."

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He encouraged people with long-term health conditions, like diabetes, to continue their regular management plan with their GP.

COVID-19 has also resulted in a number of children missing their vaccination milestones, or reaching them late.

Dr Griffiths said he understood many parents had a lot to deal with at the moment, but vaccinations are critical.

"Vaccinations save lives," he said.

"We were swamped for the flu vaccination this year, which was positive, and I'm sure when we have the COVID-19 vaccine it will be the same."

If all this has you feeling a little anxious, don't fret - Dr Griffiths said that's perfectly normal at the moment too.

It's also another good reason to book a doctors appointment.

"The second pandemic is really the mental health pandemic following COVID," he said.

"We've seen the increased background stress raise depression and anxiety.

"Patients can be reassured by their GP that it's normal to feel this way, it's a normal human reaction to fear the unknown."

If you are concerned about being out, telehealth options are available and it can be a good way to ease back into your regular relationship with your doctor.