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Dr Paul McGowan
Alma Medical Centre, Nolan Place, Stockton on Tees
TS18 2AJ
Tel: 01642 607248
Fax: 01642 612968
Email:
paul.mcgowan@nhs.net
Alma Medical Centre is a medium sized practice
(7,700 patients, 5 partners - 3 male, 2 female) in
the centre of Stockton. It started life as a
single-handed practice in 1991. There are high
levels of deprivation amongst our patients that can
be challenging but also very rewarding. To meet
these challenges, we have an excellent supportive
team who get on well and thrive on change. The
practice continues to grow and each year we register
about 400 students at the University of Durham
Stockton Campus where we provide a primary care
service.
We moved into brand new purpose premises in
September 2004. The building is spacious,
comfortable and has good parking. It is well
appointed and equipped creating an excellent
environment to provide healthcare. The GP Registrar
has a dedicated room for their own use. Computer
system is Torex System 6000. The practice is paper
light and getting lighter.
For all out of hours work we use a deputising
service (all weekend and 6pm – 8am weekdays). Out of
hours training is arranged through the Cleveland VTS
who will arrange six supervised OOH sessions,
through the local provider Primecare.
As a practice we are still very enthusiastic about
general practice and teaching. One of the greatest
strengths of the practice is the support the
partners offer not just to the staff but also to
each other. Our last two salaried doctors have
become partners. As well as looking after the Durham
university students on the Stockton campus we teach
medical students at various stages from Newcastle.
Other strengths include use of computers in primary
care (two partners are very keen) and practice
organisation (Investor in People and Kings Fund
Organisational Audit commended). We have a strong
inclusive management approach that creates a high
level of morale and motivation.
Enhanced services include alcohol and sexual heath
as well as shared care in rheumatology and
anticoagulation. We think Alma Medical Centre is an
excellent place to learn and be enthused about
general practice.This page was last
updated on:
07 November 2006
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