When is it proposed the merger could happen?
The formal merger of Blakeney Surgery and Coleford Medical Practice will take place on 1st August 2025.
What’s the benefit of merging the two practices?
We believe that the merger will support us to enhance services and ensure stability for all our patients and staff. Whilst there are national recruitment challenges for General Practice, there are also exciting opportunities to develop the range of services and types of clinicians who work in surgery. By forming one larger practice, we believe this puts us in a good position for providing new services that can be shared over the sites in the future.
What will the merged practice be called?
We asked staff for their suggestions for a name for the merged practice. It is proposed that the new name will be Dean Medical Practice.
Will I still be able to see my own GP?
The practices will operate as present, and you will still be able to see your own GP in line with your practice’s current appointment systems.
Will I be expected to travel further for an appointment?
The location of your appointments will not change as a result of the merger. You should continue to contact your practice to make an appointment in the same way as you do now.
What will happen to the staff?
We do not plan to make any staff redundancies as a result of the proposed changes. All staff will be employed by G DOC Ltd.
What is G DOC Ltd?
G DOC Ltd is the GP provider organisation for Gloucestershire; and is a membership organisation where all the GP practices in Gloucestershire are shareholders. G DOC Ltd. Is currently responsible for 4 practices across Gloucestershire.
The G DOC Ltd mission is to strengthen general practice by delivering safe, high quality, and innovative primary care. Their aim is to ensure general practice is sustainable and responsive to local needs. They recognise and celebrate the importance of a local practice serving a local population; as their operating model is to have the practice as the local delivery hub, with GDOC able to support as required and necessary.
What do the staff think about the changes?
As the services will operate as present at each practice, the merger will have limited impact on the majority of staff. The staff appreciate and understand the need to merger for future sustainability and resilience.
Do I need to do anything?
Subject to approval, the name of your practice will change to Dean Medical Practice, but you do not need to take any action.
How can I find out more?
If you have any questions, or comments please complete the online feedback form about the proposed merger or pop into your surgery by Tuesday 15 July 2025. We will continue to work with our Patient Participation Groups to understand the views of patients and respond to any concerns.