Ulster Unionist MLA Jon Burrows has paid tribute to the staff and volunteers at Ballymoney Family Practice following a visit to the surgery, where he met with GP Dr Johnny Burns and Practice Manager Nuala Lamont to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing primary care services.
Mr Burrows thanked the team for their warm welcome and for providing valuable insight into the day-to-day operation of what is now Northern Ireland’
s largest GP practice, serving more than 19,000 patients across the local area.
Speaking after the visit, Mr Burrows said: “I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to Dr Johnny Burns and Practice Manager Nuala Lamont for their warm hospitality and for taking the time to discuss the important issues affecting primary care.
Ballymoney Family Practice is a remarkable example of how modern community healthcare can be delivered.
With a patient list exceeding 19,000 people and the support of a dedicated multidisciplinary team, the practice
provides a first-class service to local families every day.
GPs perform an invaluabl role within our health service, often under significant pressure. However, it is equally important to recognise the contribution of the many staff working behind the scenes, as well as volunteers and
support personnel whose efforts help keep services running smoothly for patients. a number of challenges facing general practice and primary care provision.
Mr Burrows said the visit provided an opportunity to hear directly from frontline healthcare professionals about
“The issues raised during our discussion were both informative and constructive. I will be making representations on a number of the concerns highlighted during the visit and will continue to engage with health service providers to ensure the needs of patients and healthcare professionals are properly reflected in
decision-making.
It is vital that general practice receives the support and resources it needs to continue delivering high-quality
care within our communities.”
Mr Burrows concluded by thanking everyone involved in the practice for their ongoing commitment to patient
care. “The dedication, professionalism and compassion shown by the entire team at Ballymoney Family Practice is greatly appreciated by the communities they serve. They are a credit to our healthcare system, and I wish to
thank every member of staff and volunteer for their outstanding service.
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