Chris Loder, MP for West Dorset, officially opened a new annexe at the Apples Medical Centre in Sherborne on the 14th March. The new annexe includes additional treatment rooms, benefitting over 5,500 patients from Sherborne and the surrounding villages and expanding capacity for nurses, pharmacists, and nurse practitioners.
Mr Loder was joined at the opening by Bruce Duncan, Chair of the Apples Patients Group (APG); Simon Galvin, Vice Chair the APG; Sarah Webster, Operational Manager of Sherborne Primary Care; and Cheryl Monnox of Dorset NHS Estates.
Speaking about the occasion, Mr Loder said: “This new annexe represents a significant investment and extension to The Apples, which opened in 1985. The new facilities will increase capacity and provide an improved workplace for healthcare professionals to treat patients.”
Bruce Duncan, Chair of the APG, said: “On behalf of the APG, I thank the Practise for all their hard work and care, bearing in mind the continuously intense pressure the surgery team work under. These rooms are best placed to provide better patient care.”
Philippa Cannings, Practice Manager of the Apples, said: “The Apples Medical Centre are thrilled to expand our premises with the addition of three new consultation rooms and waiting room, we are committed to enhancing patient care and accessibility in our community, we would like to extend our appreciation to Dorset ICB for their invaluable assistance with funding, as well as Steve Way Architect, Bamford’s Builders, B&G Down Tree Service and R&S Foundations for their contribution to this project. We are also grateful to our dedicated workforce, supportive neighbours and understanding patients for their patience and cooperation during the construction phase.”