[W]hitehaven Medical Centre will close to patients today. All patients have now been allocated to other practices and should have received a letter with the information about their new individual arrangements.
Andrea Loudon, primary care lead at NHS North Cumbria Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “The process has been incredibly complex and we are very grateful for the continuing support of neighbouring practices, which we know are already under immense pressure themselves.
“Patients should all have had a letter informing them which practice they have been allocated to, and we would urge anyone who has not received a letter to contact us so we can ensure they are given the correct information.
“We understand that this will mean other practices are handling many more queries and patients, and may mean people waiting longer for some appointments. We are very grateful for the patience that has been shown during this difficult time.”
Patients who haven’t received a letter or are concerned about their allocation can contact the patient helpline on 01946 853326.
Andrea Loudon added: “We have had a small number of concerns raised already and have been able to respond to those, or log them so they can be addressed as the changes take place. We anticipate as patients move surgeries that more issues may arise, and we will support our colleagues as we work through those challenges together.”
Patients have been allocated to 15 practices across Copeland, and Allerdale where that is closer to the patient’s home.
Most patients have been allocated to:
- Fellview Healthcare
- Mansion House Surgery
- Lowther Medical Centre
- Queen Street Medical Practice
- Hinnings Road Surgery, Distington
- Westcroft House, Egremont
From tomorrow patients should contact their new practice if they need to see a doctor or a nurse, or require medication.
The practices will contact patients over the coming months to arrange their new patient check. This process will take some time, and if patients are usually well and do not see their doctor frequently they do not need to make contact unless they have a medical need.
Patients who may prefer another practice will be able to make that request after three months, in November.
They would remind everyone that your local pharmacy can provide health advice and you can call NHS 111 if your concern isn’t urgent.
