Articles and Speeches

What Happened to Wraysbury's GP
29-Sep-06, Windsor Express Article.

The residents of Wraysbury are worried.

Their two local GPs, who have served the community well in recent years, are retiring, but no replacement has been found for them or their premises. In the meantime the Primary Care Trust (PCT) plans to provide an extra doctor, but working from a more remote medical centre in Colnbrook.

The provision of a GP surgery close to home is, surely, one of the basic services to be expected of the NHS and it is surprising that with 6-months notice, new local provision has not been forthcoming. The idea of the elderly and those with disabilities being forced to travel for miles to get basic healthcare is disturbing in a civilised society, especially as we approach the winter months.

It is clear from speaking to residents on the doorstep and from letters received that residents are seriously worried about losing their local surgery. I have been in correspondence with the PCT and in addition local councillors have put together a petition to present to the council. If, as I expect, the majority of Wraysbury residents support the petition, I do hope the PCT will be persuaded to respond immediately.

I am of course aware of the pressures on the PCT, hospitals and GPs brought about by unnecessary Government targets, form-filling and a lack of certainty over funding. However, there are several sensible and practical ideas - such as arranging a temporary portacabin in Wraysbury - that could be put into practice at short notice.

In the interests of Wraysbury residents, I would urge everyone to sign the local petition and place pressure on the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead and the PCT to rethink and respond.