Fairhill Health Centre: Department of Health unable to identify new GP contractor to take over practice

Mid Ulster SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone has raised concerns with the Health Minister Mike Nesbitt about the future safety and health care of its patients.

In a statement on Tuesday, a Department spokesperson said: “Since the contractor submitted notice to the Department on July 31 2024 of their intention to terminate the GMS contract, the Department has worked extensively to identify a new GP contractor to take over the practice.

“As of today, October 15, unfortunately, despite the best efforts of all parties involved, a new GP contractor has not been secured and it is anticipated Fairhill Health Centre will close on October 31.

“Having exhausted all other options, we have concluded that allocation to neighbouring practices is the only feasible option to ensure continuity of GP services for patients.

“There are currently 2,334 patients registered at Fairhill Health Centre. Patients will be allocated to one of 13 nearby GP surgeries in the Magherafelt and Mid-Ulster areas to ensure that patients continue to have access to a GP which is a priority for the Department.”

The spokesperson stressed that patients of the practice should continue to access services at Fairhill as normal.

They continued: “Letters will be issued in the coming days informing them of the new arrangements from November 1.

“The Department acknowledges that this is not the preferred outcome for many patients and would like to reassure them that all options were considered in trying to sustain a GP surgery in Magherafelt town centre.

“Throughout this process we have considered the continuation of care of the registered patients and have recommended the best approach to limit the impact on their ongoing needs for access to GP services.

“General Practice plays a crucial role in our health and social care system and stabilisation of GP practices remains a key priority. The Department continues to support General Practice with the aim of ensuring people can access high quality, sustainable services now and in the future.”

They added the Department will continue to work with GP representatives to support the continued sustainability of General Practice and the GP workforce.