GP ‘inadequate’

Medical practice in Boots store deemed “inadequate” A CITY centre GP practice has been put in special measures after being rated “inadequate” by inspectors for the second time in a year.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) visited Newcastle Medical Centre, in Eldon Square, in December 2016 and again in July 2017.

A report from the health watchdog said it had found “significant areas of concern” following the inspections.

But the practice has said it is “disappointed” with the second inadequate rating and is pursuing a judicial review claim in relation to the CQC’s processes.

The practice, which is located within Boots on Hotspur Way, Eldon Square, provides primary medical services to around 14,600 patients.

The CQC said, according to the latest national GP survey, patients continued to rate the practice lower than average for access to care and treatment, with just 34% describing their experience of making an appointment as good (the national average is 73%).

Meanwhile, fewer than half (48%) usually waited 15 minutes or less after their appointment time to be seen (the national average is 64%).

However, the practice was praised for making improvements since the last inspection and was rated as “good” for being safe and caring.