Concerns raised about Reeth Medical Centre closure and access to care in rural North Yorkshire
It has been confirmed that Reeth Medical Centre is due to close at the end of May 2026, after the current GP announced their retirement and no replacement provider was found.
The NHS has said that all patients will be registered with other GP practices in the area, including in Hawes, Aysgarth, Leyburn and Richmond.
For many people, the news came as a shock and has raised questions about what happens next.
However, people living in these rural communities have told Healthwatch they are worried about what this will mean for them and their loved ones.
The concerns people are telling us about
Healthwatch is hearing worries about how this could affect people’s ability to get the care they need.
This includes:
Travel and distance
Some people could face round trips of up to 90 minutes to see a GP. For those without access to a car, getting to appointments may become very difficult.
Short notice and communication
People have told us they feel the closure was announced with very little notice, just before a bank holiday period, leaving little opportunity to ask questions or seek advice.
Some have said this was particularly difficult for those who needed reassurance at the time, and that they were unsure who to contact for advice.
Impact on older and vulnerable people
Many patients are older, living with long term conditions, or need regular care. Travelling further for appointments may not be realistic for everyone.
Access to medicines
The practice provides dispensing services, which are particularly important in rural areas. People are concerned about how they will get their medication if this changes.
The wider role of the practice
The surgery supports urgent care before ambulance arrival, end of life care, and visitors to the area. People have highlighted how important it is to have these services locally.
People have also described how valued the practice is within the community and the role it plays in supporting day to day life in a remote rural area.
Healthwatch view
Being registered with another GP practice is not the same as being able to access care easily.
In a rural area like Upper Swaledale and Arkengarthdale, distance, transport and the availability of local services all affect whether people can realistically get help when they need it.
Mr Ashley Green, Chief Executive at Healthwatch North Yorkshire, said:
“We’re hearing a lot of concern from people in Upper Swaledale and Arkengarthdale about what this closure will mean for them.
On paper, being registered with another GP practice sounds straightforward. But for many people, it’s not that simple. If you’re older, living with a long term condition, or don’t drive, travelling further for appointments can quickly become a real barrier.
People have also told us they were taken by surprise by how quickly this was announced, and that they’ve had little chance to ask questions or understand what will happen next.
This isn’t just about where people are registered. It’s about whether they can realistically get to appointments, pick up medication, and get the help they need when they need it.
We’re listening to people affected and will share what we hear with local NHS organisations to help make sure their experiences are considered as plans move forward.”
What needs to happen next
Healthwatch and people locally believe it is important that:
- People are given clear and timely information about what will happen next
- The NHS considers how people will physically access care, not just where they are registered
- Support is put in place for those who may struggle to travel
- The impact on access to medicines and local support services is fully understood
Healthwatch will continue to gather feedback from people affected by the closure and will share what we hear with those in charge of NHS care.
This will help make sure that people’s experiences are considered as decisions are made about how care is provided in the future.
