I was delighted by Harrow Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG) announcement last week that the walk-in service at the Pinn Medical Centre will be maintained for all patients.
This follows on from incredible hard work on the part of the practice, residents and local campaigners, and very useful input from Health Secretary Matt Hancock following a series of discussions.
Maintaining the delivery of quality health services at local hospitals and medical centres was at the centre of my General Election campaign. I wanted to continue the efforts of my predecessor, Nick Hurd, in ensuring that this remained a priority for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner.
One of my first meetings after I was elected as MP was with the trustees of the Patients’ Association, including chairman Joanne Daswani, where we discussed their progress and how I could play an active role in keeping this valuable service open for patients in Harrow.
In Parliament, I called for certainty about the future of the walk-in service. I asked the Minister for Care to support me in encouraging the local CCG to protect access to GP appointments at the walk-in service. The Secretary of State and Minister for Care both committed to meeting with me.
Following this I had a series of constructive conversations with Health Secretary Matt Hancock, who can be thanked for his input, together with the Patients’ Association and local campaign groups.
I will continue to follow discussions between the CCG and partners on the key issues relating to the future funding of the walk-in centre.
The maintenance of access to the walk-in centre is a win for patients and the community.
