Putnoe Walk-in Centre update
Bedfordshire NHS CCG has announced that the walk-in centre will remain OPEN following the award of a new two-year contract to the Putnoe Medical Centre.
You may recall that the CCG abruptly halted its recent consultation on its plans to close the centre next year while it was still going on. That was partly thanks to the overwhelming response in support of the walk-in centre, and it's been followed by this welcome reversal.
So, a huge thank you to everyone who spoke up in support of this service and everyone who's been part of the campaign against closure
The opening hours are being reduced on weekdays, to 8am -2pm only (weekends hours are remaining as 8am-5pm). This is a disappointing reduction in service, and one which I believe could have been avoided had the CCG handled this much better, and not sought to close the service in the first place.
However, having faced closure, we are in a MUCH better position than we were, thanks to everyone who's fought for Putnoe Walk-In Centre. I'll keep working with the Commissioners and the providers to seek the best possible service for residents, and will be talking to users of both the Walk-In Centre and the new Urgent Trearment Centre at Bedford Hospital which opens next month and working with NHS Commissioners accordingly.
I'll also be seeking progress on new extended hours arrangements at GP practices, which have long been promised and should improve access to care for people across the Borough.
Finally, thanks again to all patients and supporters of Putnoe Walk-In Centre!