A doctor has said it would not be safe for him to continue in a surgery alone, but that he does not want the practice to shut completely.
Last month, Hywel Dda University Health Board issued a statement after the New Quay Surgery’s GP partners resigned its General Medical Services contract.
No decision has been made about the surgery’s future. Patients will continue receiving GP services as normal until March 31, 2027, while Hywel Dda considers its long-term plans.
Local county councillor Matthew Vaux said: “Losing New Quay Surgery would have a huge impact on our community. I respect the decisions of the doctors who have served this community and would firstly like to thank them for their service.”
“For many residents, old, young, vulnerable, those without easy access to transport, having a GP locally is essential.”
Now Dr Eurig Harries of New Quay Surgery has shared a personal message.
He said: “I have given notice that I will finish as a partner at New Quay Surgery on March 31, 2027. This has been an extremely difficult decision, made after considerable thought and many discussions with my family.
“Dr Morgan had already indicated his intention to retire in spring, 2027. Remaining as the sole GP partner — the ‘last man standing’ — would have left me with overall responsibility for both the clinical and business sides of the practice, while trying to recruit doctors in an exceptionally difficult recruitment environment.
“After careful consideration, I concluded that this would not be a safe or sustainable position for me, the practice, or our patients.
“There is one distinction I particularly want to make clear: I have decided to leave New Quay Surgery. I have not decided that New Quay should no longer have a GP surgery.
“The Health Board is now considering how GP services should be provided after March 31 and has said that patients’ thoughts and views will form part of that process.
“I sincerely hope that a strong and sustainable GP service will continue to be provided locally in New Quay. They have been clear that as partners and surgery we have no say in this decision.
“In the meantime, New Quay Surgery remains open and GP services will continue as normal until March 31. Patients do not need to take any immediate action.”
He added: “I appreciate that these developments will cause worry and uncertainty. This decision was not made lightly.”
Residents launched a campaign to save the surgery after its future was thrown into doubt.
A Change.org petition started by Rhydian Jones has attracted 928 signatures, while a public meeting will be held at the town’s memorial hall on October 13 at 6.30pm; campaigners also plan to run a Facebook campaign “to bring our community together, share information and encourage as many people as possible to get involved”, while a paper petition to Hywel Dda is being organised.
