THERE is still not a clear prognosis about the future of GP services in Clun and Knighton.

Philip Dunne MP has met with the three doctors at the Meadows Medical Practice to discuss the future, following the consultation document.

This follows a public meeting at Knighton Community Hall where there was standing room only, as between 400 and 500 people heard the doctors explain the situation the practice faces.

With Dr Roger Davies due to retire by the end of this year, the practice has been unable so far to recruit a replacement doctor, so have begun consulting their patients and the public on options for the future.

“This is an outstanding practice serving some 4,000 patients, roughly half in Shropshire around Clun, and half from Wales around Knighton,” said Philip Dunne.

It is highly rated by the Care Quality Commission and has one of the lowest rates of attendance at Accident and Emergency and the lowest prescribing rates of antibiotics of any practice in Shropshire. This is testimony to the high quality service provided.

“I am determined to do my best to help ensure continuing quality primary care for my constituents in Shropshire and had a constructive meeting with the doctors earlier."

The MP has also met with the Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group that has ultimate responsibility for ensuring primary care provision throughout Shropshire.

“I look forward to doing what I can to help reach an appropriate solution, once the doctors consider the best way forward following completion of the consultation," he added.

“The Government recognises pressures on our GPs in primary care, and has allocated £500 million for additional recruitment and retention schemes as part of a £2.4 billion of extra spending on GP services – a 14% increase for the rest of this Parliament.”