NHS Grampian release statement following Moray Coast Medical Practice Protest

NHS GRAMPIAN have released a statement, following a protest against the planned closure of two Moray GP surgeries.

Residents from Hopeman, Burghead and Lossiemouth gathered outside of the Moray Coast Medical Centre in Lossiemouth today (Tuesday, April 11), to campaign against the closures of the practice's branch surgeries in Hopeman and Burghead.

In a statement, a representative of NHS Grampian said: "The Moray Integration Joint Board was presented with a comprehensive case, setting out all the public consultation and engagement carried out over a period of 16 months.

"The Health & Social Care Partnership and Moray Coast Medical Practice facilitated 8 public events and visited a number of local community groups during the engagement and consultation process prior to the final report being presented to the Moray IJB.

"The Integration Joint Board gave full consideration to the case and gave clear direction to officers as to their expectation on how we must continue to work on those elements of most importance to the Burghead and Hopeman communities, including good transport; links for medical appointments and the access to local health and care services, and making full use of technology."

READ MORE: Protestors gather outside Moray surgery

NHS Grampian added: "The Health & Social Care Partnership and Moray Coast Medical Practice will continue to engage fully with the locality planning process with the aim of developing service provision across Lossiemouth town and coastal village communities.

"The locality planning process is overseen by a local oversight group which contains both community and practitioner representation. Plans are in place for further community engagement on the priorities contained within the locality plan."

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