Campaigners say farewell to their GP provider in Sudbury

Patients stage virtual occupation of Sudbury Primary Care Practice so their doctor's contract not passed on to a multi-provider (Image: Archant)

Sudbury Primary Care Practice in Watford Road, was taken over by new management NH Solutions on November 1, replacing Integrated Health CIC, which was favoured by the large majority of patients.

Dr Ukechukwu Omodu,Dr John Akumabor. Dr Mandana Emami, who took over the practice by forming a social enterprise will remain as employees under the new management.

Gaynor Lloyd, a patient and member of Brent Patient Voice (BPV), said: “We needed to mark and celebrate three fantastic years since they took over as a social enterprise. It was arranged at the very last minute.

“We had a cake, and some champagne and thanked the doctors for everything. They are still employees but we don’t know what’s going to happen. We know it won’t be the same.”

The successful GP practice in has grown form 5,000 patients to over 8,500 in just three years.

The group took down all the pictures, posters and articles relating the fierce battle they fought to keep their doctors running the surgery.

Campaigners marched down to Parliament in March with a 3,700 signature petition.

They later took it to the headquarters of NHS Improvement, which is responsible for overseeing foundation trusts and NHS trusts.

BPV are holding a meeting on December 1 at The Learie Constantine Centre in Dudden Hill Lane, Dollis Hill, to discuss the future of Brent’s GP surgeries.

Ms Lloyd added: “There is a GP crisis happening and we fear the demise of the family doctor with many being pushed into federation.

“The reality is GP surgeries are closing all over London with Beechcroft Medical Centre in Wembley the latest to close last week. About 4,000 patients have to be redistributed. It’s a real concern.”