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Patrick Spencer, MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, issues statement on Cardinal Medical Practice

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Following our investigation into Cardinal Medical Practice, Patrick Spencer, MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, has followed Jack Abbott by calling for urgent action as the practice continues to struggle three years after its formation.

Why it matters: Over 30,000 Ipswich residents are affected by ongoing issues at the practice, including poor accessibility and low patient satisfaction.

The big picture: A survey of GP patients in July 2024 revealed persistent problems at Cardinal Medical Practice since its controversial formation in July 2021.

By the numbers:

  • Only 15% of patients find it easy to contact the practice by phone, compared to 50% nationally

  • 53% rate their overall experience as good, well below the national average of 67%

What they're saying: In a statement issued to Ipswich.co.uk, Patrick Spencer said, "For too long residents in North Ipswich and surrounding areas including Claydon, Barham and Henley have been struggling to access the good quality patient care and health services they deserve."

He went on to say, "Cardinal Medical Practice clearly still has challenges and I will be seeking an early meeting with them, but in the meantime we are still waiting for delivery of the new 'super surgery' which will deliver improved services for residents and I will be meeting with Suffolk and North East Essex [ICB] as a priority to understand what more needs to be done to get this surgery over the line."

Between the lines: Spencer's predecessor, Dr Dan Poulter, first raised concerns in September 2021 before a May 2022 Care Quality Commission inspection rated the practice as "Requires Improvement".

What's next: Spencer has committed to:

  • Seeking an early meeting with Cardinal Medical Practice

  • Meeting with Suffolk and North East Essex ICB to expedite the "super surgery" project

The bottom line: While Spencer's intervention is a good thing, it remains to be seen whether it will lead to meaningful improvements in patient care at a practice that has faced ongoing challenges.

Go deeper: If you've been affected by issues at Cardinal Medical Practice, contact editor@ipswich.co.uk or use our anonymous online form to share your experiences.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Man charged after St Helen's Street assault leaves victim in hospital

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An argument in Ipswich town centre escalated into an assault that left one man in hospital on Tuesday. Police are now seeking dashcam footage as they build their case.

Why it matters: The incident occurred in a busy area of Ipswich's town centre, with police now seeking public assistance to gather additional evidence as they build their case.

The details: Keith McKenzie, 48, of Bond Street, has been charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm.

  • The assault took place at approximately 21:45 on Tuesday near the junction of St Helen's Street and Bond Street

  • A man in his 30s sustained arm injuries following an argument with an unknown assailant

  • The victim walked to Tavern Street to seek help before being taken to hospital

  • He has since been discharged

What's next: McKenzie appeared at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Thursday, 6 February and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, 6 March.

How to help: Detectives want to hear from anyone who was driving in the area between 21:35 and 21:50 on Tuesday with dashcam footage that might have captured the altercation.

The bottom line: Anyone with information should contact South CID at Suffolk Police, quoting reference 37/6562/25, via:

  • Website: suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

  • Phone: 101

  • Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (anonymously)

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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