Healthcare on the doorstep
Reporter: DAWN MARSDEN
Date published: 27 July 2009
TEMPORARY . . . the facility will move to a more permanent site in the future
OLDHAMERS can access doctors and dentists right on their doorstep thanks to a host of new community healthcare facilities.
Patients in Hathershaw and Fitton Hill are the first to benefit from the scheme with a temporary building in Deanshut Road.
The centre is home to the Hill Top GP practice and the Ravat and Ray dentist.
There are also plans for other services such as money management advice, youth activities and social workers.
Alan Higgins, director of public health for Oldham, said: “I am delighted that the new facility is open.
“It brings new doctors and new dentists to Oldham.
“This practice and our plans for three more are the result of a lot of work with local people to provide access to healthcare that they need. Our aim is to provide extra GP services in parts of Oldham where there are currently not as many, making it easier for people to see a doctor at a time which is convenient for them.”
The centre is being run by Hope Citadel Healthcare, a local not-for-profit community interest company.
Similar centres are also in the pipeline for Hollinwood, Coldhurst and the town centre.
