Update provided on Strichen Surgery opening hours
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
An update has been provided by Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership regarding the change in opening hours at the Strichen Surgery.
Concerns were raised after a social media post outlined that the surgery’s opening hours would be reduced to one day a week.
In an update from Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership (AHSCP) it has said the surgery, which is part of Central Buchan Medical Practice run by Ayrshire Medical Group that operates independently of AHSCP, will open on Mondays from 8am-12.30pm and Thursdays from 8am-6pm.
In a letter that was sent to elected representatives from AHSCP it said: “We are aware there has been discussion within our communities in recent days, following a social media post concerning Strichen Surgery - which is part of Central Buchan Medical Practice.
“Information regarding a reduced service at Strichen Surgery was shared online on behalf of Ayrshire Medical Group, which operates independently of AHSCP.
“It has the responsibility of operating primary care services from the main New Pitsligo site, alongside the two branches of Strichen and Maud.
“We have since sought further discussion and clarification from Ayrshire Medical Group, who recently carried out a review of their services.
“Following a meeting held on March 25, we understand that Strichen Surgery will now be open as follows, effective from April the 1st.
“Monday 8am-12:30pm.
“Thursday 8am-6pm.
“Out with these times, we understand that house calls can be made by an advanced paramedic for those who are housebound and unable to travel elsewhere.
“Patients will also continue to have access to a clinician throughout the working week.
“This could mean attending appointments in New Pitsligo and Maud, or accessing advice and guidance alongside collecting medication at Websters Pharmacy in Strichen.
“We understand the unease surrounding any decision to change the days on which services are offered at Strichen Surgery.
“We also appreciate the need for a sustainable and robust model of healthcare, against high demand and ongoing challenges with staff recruitment and retainment - particularly in more rural areas.
“AHSCP officers are continuing to discuss community engagement with Ayrshire Medical Group, and ask residents to be patient when contacting the practice during this transition period.”
