Out-of-hours GP bases under threat due to costs

An NHS provider is considering closing out-of-hours GP bases to help save money

Out-of-hours GP services could be closed as an NHS provider looks to make £150m of savings.

NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) currently has nine bases - including King's Lynn and Thetford - as well as in Beccles and Lowestoft in Suffolk.

Sadie Parker, director of primary care for the ICB, said it took decisions "seriously" as it launched a public consultation to gather views on the proposals.

"We know that changing how and where services are provided has a real impact on people," she said.

She added: "This is why it is vital we hear from local people about the options we are considering before we make any decisions."

Sadie Parker at the ICB said the board was looking at how it could "get the best value for the public money" it spends

The plans could see the number of bases reduced to either five or three and both options would also involve the closure of at least Dereham, Fakenham and Beccles.

Another option being considered would see Norwich's walk-in centre left open, but on reduced hours.

All three options could save between £75,000 and £120,000, largely helped by the reduction in rent for the bases, the ICB said.

The board argued that the overall number of patients being seen across the bases had fallen from 55,000 in 2019 to 39,000 in 2024.

It blamed inflation and an aging population on reasons behind the proposals, while more people were making use of NHS 111.

MP Jess Asato said she feared the closures could lead to longer journeys for patients and more strain on an already stretched ambulance service

The Labour MP for Lowestoft, Jess Asato, said she was "appalled" that Lowestoft and Beccles faced "the loss of vital NHS services".

She said she feared it meant people needing urgent care at night would have "nowhere local to turn".

"I know how much people in Lowestoft, Beccles, and the surrounding villages value their local NHS services, and I will not stand by while they are stripped away," she added.

"We need investment in our health services, not cuts that leave our communities behind."