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First in-store GP surgery closes due to high cost

by
26 May 2010

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A GP practice inside a Sainsbury’s store has been closed due to the high cost of running the service, it has emerged.

The first in-store practice, in Heaton Park, Manchester, was set up two years ago as part of a government drive to increase competition in primary care and improve access. However, NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale is withdrawing funding because local GPs are now offering extended hours at a lower cost.

Sainsbury’s had at one stage identified around 200 suitable sites for in-store surgeries.

In-store GP Dr Mohamed Jiva could re-open the clinic as a branch of his nearby practice.

A spokesman for NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale said the cost was “higher compared to other extended hours schemes”, although he acknowledged the location was “innovative”.

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He said the majority of GPs in the area now also offer extended hours and added: “We are confident that patients’ needs are being met through our existing GP schemes.”

Copyright © Press Association 2010

NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale

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