Clinic will be benefit to all (From Harrow Times)

Clinic will be benefit to all

5:22pm Thursday 2nd April 2009

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I was slightly surprised to read Rachel Joyce’s letter (March 26) attacking plans for the new polyclinic in Alexandra Avenue in Harrow and suggesting that 34 of Harrow’s 39 doctor’s surgeries might close as a result.

The polyclinic will be open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week so that people will be able to book an appointment to see a GP outside of their working hours. The clinic will also offer a walk-in facility for those not registered with a GP.

As well as GP services, the new polyclinic will provide a wide range of other services which will reduce the need for unnecessary trips to hospital.

The site, one of five in London will from May offer minor surgery previously only available at local hospitals and new out-patient services such as vaccinations, blood tests and consultations.

None of these new services will replace existing GP practices or prevent patients from continuing to register with their current GP practice.

The new clinic is being funded by new investment from the Government to provide extra access, better choice and higher quality of care.

Not one of Harrow’s GP practices will close when the polyclinic opens.

I frankly do not understand why local Tories are campaigning against new investment in Harrow’s health services.

Gareth Thomas MP
Harrow West

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