THE DOWNLAND PRACTICE
Practice Update: Important Information for Patients
Supporting You Through Challenging Times: For the past four years, we have worked hard to shield our patients from the increasing financial pressures affecting general practice. Through careful management, improved efficiency, and innovation, we have absorbed rising costs and growing demand while continuing to maintain and enhance our services.
Unfortunately, we have now reached a point where this is no longer sustainable.
What Has Changed?
This year, general practice is facing an unprecedented reduction in core funding. For The Downland Practice, this represents a loss of £80,000 from our annual budget.
At the same time: we are delivering significantly more work previously carried out by hospitals, this includes complex, unfunded care alongside our usual responsibilities.
We have lost access (for the second-year running) to an additional NHS income stream worth £12,000 per year.
What This Means for You
Over the coming months, you may begin to notice some changes in how we operate.
These may include:
- Adjustments to how some services are delivered
- Changes in how appointments are organised
- Careful prioritisation of resources
Please be reassured that:
- Essential clinical care will remain our priority
- We will continue to provide personalised, patient-centred care
Our Commitment to Patients
These decisions are not taken lightly. Every change will be carefully considered, with the aim of minimising any impact on patient care.
However, we believe it is important to be open and honest: we can no longer fully shield our community from the effects of ongoing financial pressures.
Thank You for Your Support
Many of you have been strong supporters of the practice and local healthcare services. We are incredibly grateful for your understanding and continued support.
We felt it was important to share this update directly so that you are aware of the challenges we face and the reasons behind any changes.
Looking Ahead
Despite these challenges, our commitment to you remains unchanged.
Our dedicated, caring, and respectful team will continue to provide safe, compassionate, and effective care for our community.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding.
The Downland Partners Dr Claire Ezra Dr Sally Lewis Dr Sarah Morton Dr Anna Pitt Dr Natalie Barclay Dr Stephanie White Dr Alastair Petter
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Alternatively, you can email lisa.grannells@nhs.net or write to: Communications Manager, The Surgery, East Lane, Chieveley, Newbury, Berks, RG20 8UY
