Sunderland OAP told to find a new GP after moving house - 30 years ago

A great grandad says he is 'disgusted' after his GP surgery told him he has to find a new doctors' because he has moved house '“ despite living at the same property for the past three decades.
George Fraser with the letter he received from his GP.George Fraser with the letter he received from his GP.
George Fraser with the letter he received from his GP.

George Fraser has only ever been a patient at Fulwell Medical Centre, but he was left stunned after he was sent a letter saying that because he had “recently moved” his new address is outside the practice area and he would have to register with a new surgery.

Mr Fraser says he and wife Olive, 71, moved homes 30 years ago, but that house is less than half a mile from the previous address.

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The letter added “Unfortunately we are not in a position to look after patients outside of our area and so must ask that you re-register”.

Mr Fraser, 71, of Ashbrooke, however, says he wants to remain at the practice.

Bosses have told the Echo that letters have been sent out to certain patients after they looked at the practice’s overall list size.

Diagnosed as asthmatic, Mr Fraser also had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and relies on a motability scooter to get about.

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“The last time I moved house was 30 years ago and that was about 400 yards from Rowlandson Terrace to Cedars Court where we are now,” said the businessman, who owns a garage.

“At first I thought it must be a mistake or something but when I rang up they said it was right. She said that I had 30 days to find a new doctor.

“I’ve been with them for 70 years, it’s not a short time at all. To be told to find another doctor now is disgusting.”

Mr Fraser, who has three sons with Olive, as well six grandchildren and four great grandchildren, says he now intends to picket the medical centre until he is allowed to stay a patient.

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“I’d really like this to be reversed,” he added. “I want to get 10,000 flyers printed out so I can tell people about what they are doing.”

Practice manager at Fulwell Medical Centre, Carole , said: “This is due to capacity.

“We want to ensure we are providing safe care.”