Ian Paisley MP has welcomed a decision by the Department of Health to confirm a new contract for those patients who were being faced with the closure of Galgorm Medical Practice.
An announcement was made by the Department on Friday afternoon (11 August), detailing the arrangements for patients of the popular local practice who have been left in limbo in recent weeks.
The North Antrim MP thanked everyone involved and described the plan as a "great outcome" and a "splendid result". Mr Paisley said:
"The Department of Health has confirmed that Rockfield Medical Centre has been appointed as the new contractor providing GP services to the patients of Galgorm Surgery, Ballymena.
"What is important is that ALL staff and patients of Galgorm Surgery will be transferred to Rockfield Medical Centre with effect from 1 September 2023. Saving the jobs and keeping the patients together is a splendid result."
A letter will be sent to all 2515 patients of Galgorm Surgery with the new telephone and address details of Rockfield Medical Centre.
Mr Paisley added:
"I welcome this confirmation and certainty for the staff and patients of Galgorm Surgery.
"A lot of work has gone in by the medical team to identify a suitable contractor, and while there will be some minor disruption in terms of location for some, by-in-large this is a great outcome for the community practice and secures the service for over 2500 patients.
"I would like to thank the health service and commend the united political front shown by all representatives involved in making representations to secure this practice."