A GP surgery in Helston has announced its partners plan to terminate their contract – leaving patients concerned for the future.

Meneage Street Surgery in Helston announced the news of Dr Vyvyan and Dr Shaw on its website this afternoon (Tuesday). 

With growing pressure on the NHS, patients have taken to social media to air their concerns regarding today’s announcement.

While there is currently no indication that the surgery will close, despite the departure of the partners, it has led to concern from some that patients may need to move to an already busy Helston Medical Centre. 

One person said: “How the hell will Helston Surgery cope with us all being transferred to there? Or some will have to go out the area, it will be utter chaos.”

However, the NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board is said to be looking at the future of the surgery going forward, and it is expected at this time that they will be looking to keep the surgery open. 

Another responding to the news said: “Sad to see two such great GPs leaving.

“Hopefully new GP partners can be found / step in and retain an NHS contract at Meneage Street Surgery.”

In a letter posted to its website, which will also be sent to patients, the surgery said: “NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board (CIOSICB) is responsible for commissioning (that means planning, paying for and monitoring) GP practices across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

“Service at Meneage Street Surgery is currently provided by two partners, Dr Vyvyan and Dr Shaw.

“Drs Vyvyan and Shaw have, with great regret, decided to provide CIOSICB with a termination notice confirming they intend to leave their NHS contract on 31 March 2023.

“Currently the primary care team within CIOSICB is working with other GP providers in the area to explore what the future of the surgery might look like.

“Until the end of March 2023, full GP medical services will continue to be provided exactly as they are now.

“I wish to reassure you that you will always have access to an NHS GP practice, and until we update you further you should remain registered with Meneage Street Surgery.

“Our highest priority is to get the clarity that you need at the first opportunity.

“I will write again towards the end of November 2022 to provide an update.

“Please note that currently you do not need to take any action. As stated above Meneage Street Surgery remains open as usual, so please continue to access services in the normal way.

“I appreciate that this letter may feel unsettling, but please be assured that you will not be without a local GP service and more details about the future will follow at the end of November 2022.

“If you have any questions about this letter please contact the primary care team in the first instance, rather than the practice.

“You can email ciosicb.primarycare@nhs.net or telephone 01726 627711."

The Packet has contacted NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board for further comment.