NHS Kent and Medway does not run GP practices. It works with practices to make sure the practice is delivering what is set out contractually. NHS Kent and Medway can approve big changes, like if a practice wants to merge with another practice.
If a GP practice wants to make a big change (for example, move to a new building or close a branch), it must:
Before proposing changes, GP practices must:
We are responsible for making sure GP practices deliver the services required under their NHS contract. It also has to balance the needs of each practice with those of the local community.
We have a duty to make sure due process has been followed, that patients and stakeholders have been engaged with and the proposed changes do not affect the delivery of the national contract. We can, however, ask the practice to put measures in place to address any patient concerns.
If a GP practice decides to hand back its contract and stop providing services, we would explore options and ensure that local people continue to have access to care.
Once an application from a general practice to change is received, NHS Kent and Medway will review the application, the patient engagement and how the practice intends to respond to any issues raised.
The application is considered by the General Practice Contract Oversight Group, an advisory group, and then ratified - or challenged - by the Primary Care Strategic Oversight Committee. This committee has representatives from the primary care team in the ICB, from the Local Medical Committee (who represent all Kent and Medway GPs), the ICB's quality team and GPs. The outcome of the committee is communicated back to the applicant.