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 says the closure follows the GP practice partners’ decision to hand back their contract after the planned retirement. It says it does not have the legal power to require a practice to remain open, but had explored options to try and find another provider.
All 1,600 patients will be registered with other GP practices in the area, including in Hawes, Aysgarth, Leyburn and Richmond.
The NHS has said it is writing to patients with information about what happens next and how to access services.
For many people, the news came as a shock and has raised questions about what happens next.
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 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 the closure was announced on social media with very little notice, just before a bank holiday period. This left little opportunity to ask questions or seek advice. Some people said they were unsure who to contact at the time.
Impact on older people and those without transport
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. Many have also described how valued the practice is within the community and the role it plays in day to day life in a remote rural area.
What the NHS says
The NHS says the closure follows the GP practice partners’ decision to hand back their contract after the planned retirement of the current GP. It says it explored options to find another provider, but no suitable alternative was identified.
The NHS has published more detailed information about the closure, including answers to common questions about what will happen next. This includes how patients will be registered with other practices, how services will continue, and what support may be available.
You can read the full questions and answers on the NHS website:
https://humberandnorthyorkshire.org.uk/reeth-medical-centre-closure-questions-and-answers/
Healthwatch response
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:
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 told us the announcement felt sudden, and that they have questions about what will happen next and what it means for them.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 those in charge of care to help make sure their experiences are taken into account as plans move forward.”
There is ongoing discussion about the future of services in Reeth. A special meeting involving local councillors, NHS representatives and others is taking place, and the issue is also expected to be discussed at a future meeting of the council’s Health Scrutiny Committee in May.
We will continue to follow developments and share what we hear from people affected.
What needs to happen next
Healthwatch and people locally have said it is important that:
- People are given clear, timely information that answers their questions and helps them understand what will happen next
- The NHS looks at how people will actually get to appointments, not just where they are registered
- Practical support is in place for those who may struggle to travel
- The impact on getting medicines and local support is fully understood
While the decision to close the practice sits with the provider, the NHS is responsible for making sure people can still access care.
People have told Healthwatch they are concerned that simply being registered elsewhere may not address the practical challenges of living in a rural area.
Healthwatch will continue to gather feedback from people affected by the closure and will share what we hear with those responsible for NHS care.
This will help make sure people’s experiences are considered as decisions are made about how care is provided in the future.
