Concerns raised over eight GP surgeries

SEVEN doctor’s surgeries in Oldham have been listed in the highest priority band for inspections by the Care Quality Commission. Another is listed in the second-highest priority band.

The surgeries will be considered for inspection from next year. This is the first time information on all general practices in England has been analysed and published to show the public how it will decide which surgeries to inspect.

It follows the CQC producing a list of 38 indicators, which were used to place surgeries in bands reflecting the urgency of inspection. The indicators included patient experience, official statistics and major surveys.

Across the country, 82 per cent (6,076 practices) were placed in the lowest four bands, of which more than half (3,797) were in band six.

Another 1,200 practices were put in bands one and two - meaning they are listed as high priority for inspection.

Professor Steve Field, chief inspector of general practice, said: “It is important to remember the data isn’t a judgment; only when we inspect we can determine if a practice provides safe, high-quality and compassionate care. The data is a tool to help us decide where to inspect, and when.”



The seven local surgeries listed for high-priority inspection are:

Oak Gables Medical Practice, Shaw

Dr Mohua Chowdhury, Integrated Care Centre

Oldham Medical Services, Hathershaw

Dr Pal and Partners, Parks Medical Practice, Royton

Dr Addy and Dr Nelson, Barley Clough Medical Centre, Oldham

Pennine Medical Centre, Mossley

Dr Zuber Ahmed, Sun Valley Medical Practice, Glodwick.

Werneth Medical Practice was listed in band two, the second highest priority.