Half of Rochdale’s GP practices have joined together under a new borough wide federation in what health leaders describe as a significant change to the way primary care is delivered locally.
The Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Integrated GP Federation was formally launched this week at the Willow Dementia Hub, bringing together practices from across the borough to strengthen neighbourhood services and protect community based care.
Leaders behind the move say closer collaboration will allow surgeries to share resources, support one another and reinvest funding directly into frontline services at a time of sustained pressure on the NHS.
The launch event was attended by the Mayor of Rochdale, Janet Emsley, alongside representatives from neighbouring GP federations, the Greater Manchester GP Federation, Springhill Hospice, Hope Citadel CIC and BARDOC, the borough’s not for profit urgent care provider.
Steve Taylor, Chief Officer of the Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Local Care Organisation, was also present.
Acting Interim Chair Dr Louise Thompson said the federation marks an important moment for general practice in the borough.
“General Practice is the foundation of the NHS. By working together rather than in isolation, we can strengthen neighbourhood services, use public resources responsibly and ensure patients receive high quality, compassionate care closer to home.”
Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE, Chief Executive of BARDOC and a member of the federation, said the initiative supports the wider NHS ambition to deliver more care in community settings and reduce demand on hospitals.
Daniel Jones of Hope Citadel CIC said stronger partnership working would help deliver more joined up and person centred services for residents.
The Willow Dementia Hub was chosen as the venue in recognition of its community focused work supporting people living with dementia and their families.
Health leaders say that with parts of Rochdale facing significant health inequalities, collaboration between GP practices, community providers and voluntary organisations will be key to improving long term outcomes.
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