It was a day of immense pride for Rochdale Road Medical Centre as Mr. Chris Clarkson, MP for Heywood and Middleton, honored the occasion by officially inaugurating the newly refurbished and expanded GP practice. The event witnessed the presence of esteemed guests including Steve Taylor, Chief Officer of Rochdale Care Organisation, Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust; Sandra Croasdale, Associate Director of Integrated Systems Development at NHS Greater Manchester, Integrated Care, Heywood, Middleton, and Rochdale; Dr. M. Jiva, PCN lead for Middleton, and the dedicated medical professionals of Rochdale Road Medical Centre – Dr. S. Shahid, Dr. O. Khan, and Dr. M. Latiff. Also present were Jack Cochrane, Practice Manager, and Jackie McCann from Healing Humanity (Charity Wing).
Dr. Shahid, Senior GP Partner and Associate Medical Director at Manchester Integrated Care Board, expressed his joy at the practice’s expansion and the increase in the number of rooms. He highlighted the practice’s close collaboration with the local neighborhoods, primary care network, and voluntary sector, all working towards providing healthcare services closer to patients’ doorsteps and moving more services from hospitals into the community.
The presentation showcased the vision of the practice, emphasising its commitment to helping the most vulnerable in the community overcome health and social inequalities. Their approach involves investing in safe and welcoming spaces that are tailored to meet the needs of the community, instilling confidence and empowering people with the skills to lead happy and healthy lives. The aim is to create a self-sufficient and sustainable community where integrated health and social care are at the core, ensuring that the most vulnerable can access the help they need.
Steve Taylor commended the impressive work being carried out in the community under the leadership of Rochdale Road Surgery. He recognised Rochdale’s outstanding contributions, both nationally and internationally, in addressing health and social inequalities. He specifically praised the community engagement efforts led by Dr. Salman Shahid and Jackie McCann.
Chris Clarkson MP, a supporter of these transformative changes, expressed his pride in collaborating with the health and social care community. He spoke highly of the remarkable work being undertaken at the practice, highlighting the positive impact it is making. Mr. Clarkson also noted that he has taken Dr. Shahid to No 10 Downing Street for a meeting with Steve Barclay to share best practices, showcasing the recognition of the practice’s achievements.
