A SURGERY has completed a staggering turnaround after it was told it required improvements by a health watchdog.

Greenwood Surgery, in Tylers Ride, South Woodham Ferrers, was inspected in November last year, when officials from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) found that it was inadequate for providing safe services, and required improvement in its effectiveness and leadership.

A follow up inspection, carried out in August and published this week, shows a huge improvement from the surgery.

All aspects of care provided by the practice are now rates as ‘Good’, including safety, leadership and responsiveness.

The surgery is run by Dr John Cormack, also known as John Cormack-the-family-doctor-who-works-for-the-NHS-for-free, who legally changed his name to raise awareness of the lack of funding the practice was receiving.

Inspector, Professor John Field, said: “We first carried out a comprehensive inspection at the practice on November 10 2016. The overall rating for the practice was requires improvement.

“At our August 23 comprehensive inspection we found the practice had addressed all concerns highlighted from the previous inspection and improvements had been made.

“All clinical staff had undertaken infection prevention control training. Staff had the skills, knowledge and experience to deliver effective care and treatment. All had attended relevant training including safeguarding, infection control and emergency life support.

“Data from the July 2017 national GP patient survey showed patients rated the practice higher than others for all aspects of care. For example, 92 per cent of patients would recommend this surgery to someone new to the area compared with the national average of 77 per cent.

“Patients said they found it easy to make an appointment with a named GP and there was continuity of care, with urgent appointments available the same day.”

To read the full report, visit: cqc.org.uk/location/1-532123271