Public Meeting regarding the closure of Gilletts Surgery
As you may be aware following our previous letter dated 6th September 2024, in order to continue to provide a safe and high standard of care that is fit for modern general practice, we are in the process of reviewing options to close our Balcombe surgery and move all services to one site in Handcross.
Thank you to everyone who took part in the survey, which we conducted to hear the views of our community and understand how we can address any issues for those who may be disproportionately affected. The views of our patient community provide invaluable insight into the impact of our application to close the surgery and we hope to share some key themes from the survey and address some of the concerns raised.
We gained 790 responses (8.1% response rate) to our online and paper survey, from a range of patients in Balcombe, Handcross and surrounding areas.
From the survey results, it is clear that while many respondents feel that the closure of Balcombe surgery would not significantly affect them personally, some are concerned about the impact to services in Handcross.
To reassure patients, we do not anticipate there to be any negative impact to waiting times and availability of appointments at Handcross if the Balcombe surgery was to close. It is important to note that only 58 appointments take place at Balcombe each week, which is just 8% of all appointments offered at Ouse Valley Practice.
The Handcross surgery is a purpose-built facility with plenty of space to accommodate additional appointments. The survey also shows that most patients are already accustomed to travelling to Handcross for appointments.
The survey also revealed concerns around prescription collection and accessibility and transportation. Thank you to those who suggested locations for prescription collection. We are now in the process of assessing the suitability of the suggestions and exploring all options for prescription services.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you would like more information about our proposal, please read the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on our website https://www.ousevalleypractice.nhs.uk/2024/09/04/the-future-of-gp-services-in-balcombe-gilletts/ which addresses some more of the concerns raised by our patients.
Kind regards,
The Partners of Ouse Valley Practice
Dr Janet Hardingham
Dr Katie Briggs
Dr Tiziana Camilleri
Dr Jo Farrant