Under threat Laindon surgery to stay open (From Basildon Recorder)

Under threat Laindon surgery to stay open

5:30pm Thursday 14th March 2013 in News By Chloe Chapman

A DOCTORS surgery threatened with closure has been saved to the delight of its 1,500 patients.

The future of Knights Surgery, off Markhams Chase, Laindon, was in doubt after its sole GP Dr Andrew Holman announced he was taking early retirement.

But now new doctors Subrata Basu and his friend Gbenga Odutola have been found to take over the practice from Monday, March 25.

The announcement comes after 1,100 patients signed a petition to keep it open.

Glenn Whyte, 40, of Weymarks, who launched the petition, said: “It’s a victory for people power. I might have started the ball rolling but everyone has shown support, it’s amazing really.

"Obviously everyone is a bit upset about Dr Holman leaving but we respect his decision. It’s great news that the surgery has been saved.”

Newly qualified Dr Subrata Basu and his friend Dr Gbenga Odutola both trained in Basildon and are delighted to be taking on the surgery.

Dr Basu said: “It is very good news. We’ve been to the surgery and held a few sessions with the patients to get to know them and they all seem really pleased.

“It might be difficult for the first few weeks whilst we get settled in, but Dr Holman is staying on for a few days until the end of March to help us get on our feet.

“A lot of the patients left when they thought the surgery was going to close, so my main worry is that they might not come back.”

Dr Holman, who was due to leave on February 28, decided to extend his contract by a month after NHS South Essex revealed the surgery would be closed and its 1,500 patients would be moved to nearby practices.

Patients who already found alternative GP practices will now be able to return.

Carolyn Larsen, Associate Director of Primary Care Commissioning, said: “NHS South Essex has written to patients of Knights Surgery, Basildon, to inform them that Dr Holman has retracted his termination notice and entered into a partnership with Dr Olugbenga Odutola and Dr Subrata Basu.

“This means the contract will continue and the surgery will remain open to provide medical care for patients.

“Patients do not need to take any action as a result of this decision and can continue to use the surgery in the normal way. Anyone who has concerns or needs further information should contact the PCT PALS team on 0800 587 9159.”