NHS Norfolk and Waveney has announced it is launching a formal procurement process to find a new provider of GP services at the Beechcroft surgery in New Costessey, Norwich. 

It has been holding discussions with interested parties and aims to ensure a new provider of primary care is put in place by October 2012, for the 4,000 patients registered at Beechcroft.

The GPs who currently hold the contract to run Beechcroft have announced that they do not have enough capacity to continue running the surgery because two colleagues have retired. They remain committed to continue providing healthcare at their surgery in Sandy Lane, Taverham.

Nikki Cocks, Director of Primary Care for NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: “If the procurement process goes as planned, we will be looking to the Taverham Partnership of GPs to continue providing primary medical services at Beechcroft Surgery until September 30, 2012. 

“As we have stated before, we are committed to keeping Beechcroft Surgery open and ensuring continuity of service for the 4,000 patients registered there. The needs of Beechcroft Surgery’s patients remain paramount, and we will continue to keep them updated of any developments as soon as they are confirmed.” 

NOTE: In order to comply with procurement legislation and ensure that we meet a short timescale, NHS Norfolk and Waveney is proposing a limited competitive process in the short term and then run a full procurement for a permanent provider within 18 months. Initial discussions with some interested parties have indicated that this would generate sufficient market interest to secure the provision required.