Important update for patients registered with Cross Hands and Tumble GP surgeries

Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB) is reminding patients of Cross Hands and Tumble GP practices that Amman Tawe Partnership will take over the General Medical Services (GMS) Contract on 1 April 2024.

In February, Hywel Dda UHB confirmed the experienced multidisciplinary partnership, who already provide care to Hywel Dda patients across Gwaun Cae Gurwen, Garnant and Brynamman, had been awarded the Contract.

Most members of the current Practice team have chosen to continue in their roles and will transfer to the new management, ensuring good continuity for registered patients.

Unfortunately, the Health Board has very recently been informed by the owners of the Tumble Surgery building, that this facility will not be available to lease from 1 April. This means that all appointments and services will be provided from the Cross Hands Health Centre only.

The Health Board is working at pace with the Partnership to prioritise the required alterations to the Cross Hands Health Centre in order to accommodate both the additional patient appointments and the staff from Tumble Surgery who will transfer to the Amman Tawe Partnership on the 1 April.

Plans are also progressing on the new Cross Hands Health and Wellbeing Centre, and it is hoped that the Practice will be able to start providing services from the modern, purpose designed building in 2026.

Jill Paterson, Director of Primary Care, Community and Long Term Care for Hywel Dda UHB, said: “In recent months, Tumble Surgery has primarily been used as a base for the administrative team, for some nurse appointments and a limited number of GP appointments. Going forward, all GP appointments will be provided from the Cross Hands Health Centre.

“However, the Health Board understands that the closure of Tumble Surgery may have an impact on some patients. If any patient registered with Cross Hands and Tumble Surgeries requires further information, please call Hywel Dda University Health Board on 0300 303 8322 (option 5), email ask.hdd@wales.nhs.uk or write to FREEPOST HYWEL DDA HEALTH BOARD.

“On behalf of the Health Board, the departing Practice and the management team of the Amman Tawe Partnership, I would  like to thank patients for their continuing support at this time of change and provide assurance that all involved are working together to ensure minimal disruption for patients and to  services.”