They also discussed a letter dated 23rd May from the Local Medical Committees (LMC) Ltd which suggests that SW Essex PCT will be placing adverts in the Autumn seeking expressions of interest from experienced healthcare providers, to provide new local health services from GP-led Health Centres (Darzi centres or Poly-clinics).
John said: “My concern is that the PCT’s Strategic Review is considering closing local GP surgeries across Billericay. Our suspicions were heightened when a joint effort by myself and GPs and Councillors across Billericay to raise this matter with the PCT earlier in the year met a wall of silence. We therefore decided to go public last week, since when I’m pleased the PCT has been in touch to apologise and to agree a meeting. We are now arranging details, and I’ve asked that GPs and Councillors also be invited.
“Meanwhile, I find it worrying that new evidence suggests the PCT will soon be seeking bids to provide Darzi Centres or poly-clinics. These new super surgeries are part of a government plan to replace the family doctor service I highlighted last week. We need to discuss this.
“I now look forward to our meeting with the PCT. We are concerned that the closure of local GP surgeries would hurt communities particularly senior citizens, young mums and the disabled. The PCT’s previous silence has been unfortunate, so let us now hope we can have a full, open and genuine consultation about any proposals affecting our GP services. Like Post Offices, once closed they could be lost forever.”
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