Patient Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why has Dr Ahmad decided to hand back his NHS contract?
A: As a NHS contract holder, Dr Ahmad has the right to hand back his contract when he no longer wishes to continue managing the delivery of primary medical services to patients. It is not a requirement for Dr Ahmad to disclose the reason for handing back the practice contract, however North East London Clinical Commissioning Group (NEL CCG) are responsible for ensuring suitable arrangements are in place for the continuity of care for patients.
Q2. What will happen to the staff at Forest Surgery once the new caretaking provider takes over?
A: Existing staff will be able to continue working at the Forest Surgery under the management of the new caretaking provider.
Q3. How can I find out more information about the new caretaking provider?
A: The new caretaking provider (Omnes Healthcare) has its own dedicated website where you can find out more information: http://omneshealthcare.co.uk/
Omnes Healthcare will also be holding a patient engagement event in December, whereby patients will have the opportunity to meet some of the management team and also ask any questions you may have. Omnes Healthcare will inform patients closer to the time via the practice website (https://theforestsurgery.co.uk ) and other communication mediums towards the end of November.
Q4. Can I expect any immediate changes to how services will be delivered from 1 November?
A: Omnes will not make immediate changes to how services will be delivered. The opening times of the practice will continue to be Monday-Friday 08:00am until 6:30pm and the staff providing the service will be the same. Dr Ahmed will continue to see patients registered with the Forest Surgery as he is joining Omnes as a salaried GP and Clinical Lead from 1st November 2021. Over the next couple of months Omnes will review feedback from the CQC, National Annual Patient’s Survey, alongside feedback from the Patients Participation Group to understand from a patient’s perspective any improvements that could be made.
Q5. How long will these caretaking arrangements be in place?
A: The caretaking arrangements will be in place for a minimum of 12 months, with the option to extend by a further 6 months if required. This will provide NEL CCG sufficient time to put in place long term arrangements for the registered patient list at the Forest Surgery. You will be kept informed in advance of any changes regarding the long-term future of the practice, prior to the caretaking arrangements coming to an end.
Q6. Will I need to register with the new caretaking provider?
A: No, you will not have to register with the new caretaking provider, as Omnes Healthcare will have access to all of your medical records when it takes over on 1 November 2021. It should be a seamless process, with no disruption to patient services once the caretaking arrangements begin. There will be no action for you to take.
Q7. If I am not happy with the new caretaking arrangements, do I have the option to register with another GP surgery?
You have the right to register with another GP surgery at any time you wish. You can go online to the NHS website at: www.nhs.uk/service-search to search for another GP surgery nearby to where you live or you can call the contact the NHS Customer Contact Centre on 0300 311 2233 if you require any further assistance.
Last updated: 26 October 2021
