Former Health Minister and North Antrim MLA, Robin Swann, has welcomed the announcement of a new GP services contractor for Galgorm Surgery in Ballymena.
The Department of Health last week officially designated Rockfield Medical Centre as the successor contractor to provide essential medical care to the patients of Galgorm Surgery.
After engaging closely with the Department of Health and meeting with the dedicated staff of Galgorm Medical Centre, Mr. Swann welcomed this pivotal development which underscores a continued commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the local community.
Cllr Jackson Minford, Robin Swann MLA, Peter May Permanent Secretary Department of Health, Gearoid Cassidy Department of Health, who met earlier this year to discuss Galgorm Surgery..
The North Antrim MLA said:
"As of 1 September 2023, all personnel and patients currently associated with Galgorm Surgery will be seamlessly transferred to the care of Rockfield Medical Centre. This transition aims to ensure uninterrupted and superior healthcare provisions for the residents of Ballymena.
"The Department of Health has undertaken the diligent task of notifying over 2500 patients of Galgorm Surgery about the impending changes. Each patient will receive a formal letter containing the updated contact information, including the new telephone number and address details for Rockfield Medical Centre.
"This step follows an exhaustive selection process, encompassing rigorous efforts to identify a suitable GP contractor capable of upholding the standards of medical care that the community rightfully deserves. The appointment of Rockfield Medical Centre stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of all parties involved in ensuring a seamless transition of services, subsequent to the termination of the previous contractor's contract in May 2023".
Dr Monika Tobolska, lead GP at Rockfield Medical Centre
Dr Monika Tobolska, lead GP at Rockfield Medical Centre, commented:
"Dear friends, most of the reception staff and support staff have kindly decided to move to Rockfield.
"We are still trying to attract as many Galgorm Practice staff to join with us as we can.
"Hopefully we will make this move smooth as possible for the patients and the staff."
Mr Swann concluded by thanking the Department of Health, the staff of Galgorm Surgery, and all stakeholders who have actively contributed to this landmark decision and expressed his optimism that this transition will foster a renewed sense of trust and reliability in primary healthcare services for the residents of Ballymena.