Mansfield and Ashfield is one of the worst-affected areas for GP closures and mergers in the UK, according to new research
As reported by Chad, new research has shown that Mansfield and Ashfield is one of the worst-affected areas for GP closures and mergers in the UK.
The research (conducted using Freedom of Information requests) shows 138 surgeries closed across the country in 2018.
Out of the 519,500 patients those closures affected, 11,088 were based in north Nottinghamshire.
This made Mansfield and Ashfield CCG joint tenth in the country for the most affected areas.
20% of last year’s closures involved mergers, but this has proven as problematic as an actual closure, for many.
Patients affected by mergers normally have to re-register, and the new surgery may be much further away.
The think tank, Patients Association, said this can be “hugely disruptive” and that the figures should be “alarming” for patients.
Rachel Power, of the association, said: “Patients will be right to feel alarmed. Many may be left wondering if their practice might be next. It’s particularly concerning to see smaller practices being forced to shut up shop.
“Many of their patients will have built strong relationships with their family doctor over many years. These closures could leave patients facing long waits, and push more towards A&E – which we know is under severe pressure itself.”
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