Practice Catchment Area Boundary Change
FAQs
Why is the practice proposing to expand its catchment area?
We want to improve access to quality care for people living just outside our current catchment area. Expanding the boundary means more local residents can register with us and benefit from our services.
Will this affect me as a patient?
No, your care will not be impacted. In fact, expanding our boundary may help improve service resilience and ensure we continue offering responsive care.
Will the practice become too busy?
We’ve carefully reviewed our capacity and staffing levels. We are confident that with gradual changes and support from our team, we can maintain the same high standard of care for all patients. Following the successful rollout of our triage model, access to appointments has significantly improved, with more patients being seen within 10 days than previously.
Will you recruit more clinicians?
Yes, an increase in patient numbers will bring in additional funding which we will reinvest in clinical capacity. We are fortunate to have a strong reputation as a place to work, as a result we have a waiting list of GPs keen to work at St Thomas Medical Group and we are confident in our ability to recruit swiftly.
Will this impact car parking?
There is likely to be an increase in demand for car parking, but the practice is well served by public transport, and we hope patients will consider using these options where possible.
To support availability for patients, we’ve implemented a staff parking policy: staff members may only park on-site for 50% of their working week.
In addition, there is ample free parking available in the surrounding area.
Who will benefit from this change?
People living in nearby areas who currently struggle to access local NHS GP services. This may include families, older adults and individuals with limited transport options.
Has the community been consulted?
Yes, we’ve spoken with our Patient Participation Group and reached out to local parish councils. We’ve received positive feedback and continue to welcome your thoughts.
What’s next?
We’re submitting a formal proposal to the Integrated Care Board (ICB). If approved, the boundary will be adjusted, and we’ll inform patients before any changes go live.
How can I raise a comment, concern or ask a question?
We welcome your feedback at any time.
You can:
Speak to a member of our reception team.
Email the practice directly at stthomas@nhs.net
All feedback is reviewed by the practice and helps us improve our services and patient experience.