Patients get their say on Harbottle GP services

Since October last year, services have been provided by the Rothbury Practice twice a week from the Harbottle site, giving patients access to GP and nursing appointments.

This interim arrangement was put in place after the GP running the service handed back her contract, resulting in the temporary closure of the surgery. It is due to end on October 18.

NHS England and Northumberland clinical commissioning group, the organisations responsible for commissioning GP services, are now looking how the service can be provided in the future and want to hear the views of patients.

Initially, patients are being asked to participate in a short survey and all responses will be looked at, along with feedback already received.

The next phase will involve NHS England working with NHS Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group, local councillors and Healthwatch to agree how the survey feedback can be used to inform the future provision of services.

Dr Craig Melrose, medical director for NHS England Cumbria and the North East said: "We know the strength of feeling in the local community for primary care services to continue in Harbottle and encourage all patients to complete the short survey to help us to shape future services."