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Dr Paul McGowan
Alma Medical Centre, Nolan Place, Stockton on Tees
TS18 2AJ
Tel: 01642 607248
Fax: 01642 612968
Alma Medical Centre is a medium sized practice
(9,200 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 Synergy but will probably move to System
One soon. 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 TVVTS 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. Two current partners originally started
as career start salaried GPs in the practice.
The practice is involved in teaching Newcastle
University medical students at various stages and
has a group of third years attached for most of the
academic year. We also have Foundation F2 doctors on
a four month attachment through the University
Hospital of North Tees.
Other strengths include Practice Based Commissioning
(one of the partners is the local PCT lead) 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 have plenty of attached staff
including community nurses, pharmacy advisors, a
community matron, several counsellors and a smoking
cessation team.
We think Alma Medical Centre is an excellent place
to learn and be enthused about general practice.
This page was last
updated on:
13 August 2009
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