A DOCTOR based at a surgery in Wrexham has increasing frustrations over the lack of funding. 

Hanmer surgery is a rural single-handed GP practice and, with over 2,000 patients, is looking to move to more suitable premises.

Following a visit to the site, Sam Rowlands MS said: “I recently visited Hanmer surgery to speak to an extremely frustrated GP, Dr Kieran Redman, who for many years has been trying to get financial help from the health board so he can move to more suitable premises.

“The surgery, which only has space for one GP, currently has about 2,000 patients on its list but this is continuing to grow as a number of local surgeries have closed down recently.

“Dr Redman has identified an old building as an alternative site for his practice which would improve patient access and create more space for staff but this needs renovating and so far he has been unable to get any financial help from Betsi."

Hanmer surgery is on the border of Wales and England and any application for financial help has to be approved by the East Integrated Health Community Committee.

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Several other issues were also discussed including concern over the Welsh Performer’s List which only allows Welsh GP’s to cover Welsh surgeries as English GP’s cannot practice in Wales unless they are on the list.

Mr Rowlands added: “I certainly share Dr Redman’s frustration with finding suitable cover when he needs to have time off and Welsh Government need to look at making it easier for English GP’s to practice in Wales. I also noted that the practice does not even have enough room for a staff area and has to close at lunchtime. I will be raising his concerns in the Senedd.”

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board was approached for a comment.