GP surgery shuts permanently with one day's notice

A statement said the surgery had permanently closed for "unforeseen circumstances"

A West Midlands GP surgery has closed at short notice due to "unforeseen circumstances", with patients reallocated to other practices.

Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) said it was told on Wednesday that Hawes Lane practice in Rowley Regis would close on Thursday.

ICB primary care medical director Dr Mona Sidhu said it would ensure patients "continue to have good access to GP services in their local area".

Information shared by West Bromwich MP Sarah Coombes said that patients would eventually be reallocated between three local practices.

It is understood receivers took control of the surgery after a bankruptcy hearing involving the contract holder.

A message to patients said they would be contacted about their future care arrangements, but it was important they "continue to come forward for any care and support they require during this time".

Temporary care will be provided by Portway Family Practice in Oldbury while permanent allocations are resolved.

The statement continued: "We apologise for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding."

Ms Coombes described the closure as "worrying news", and said she would discuss the situation with health bosses.

The information she shared from the ICB said patients would be reallocated automatically to either Portway, Haden Vale, or The Practice in Old Hill.

Inspection outcome

The replacement surgeries are all between 30 and 60 minutes' walk from the closed practice, and between 20 and 30 minutes by bus.

Hawes Lane was last fully inspected by the Care Quality Commission in 2018 when it was rated Good.

A review in 2023 found there was no evidence to reassess the rating.