GP care at a Carmarthenshire practice will continue after a new GP partnership has taken over the contract.

Amman Tawe Partnership will take over the General Medical Services (GMS) contract for patients at the Cross Hands and Tumble practices.

There had been concern for the future of care for patients registered at the practices after the current partners handed back their contract – with their care services due to end on March 31, 2024.

After consultation with patients, the community and healthcare partners, Hywel Dda University Health Board had decided to open the tender process for a partnership to take over the practices and Dr Williams and the Amman Tawe Partnership has now been awarded the contract.

Jill Paterson, the health board’s director of primary care, community and long-term care, said: “Amman Tawe Partnership are an experienced, multi-disciplinary team with a strong track record in delivering good quality care for their patients in a neighbouring practice.

“During the interview process, they described their vision for meeting the needs of the patients of the practice, and this contract award represents an opportunity to retain these important services in the heart of the community in which they serve.

“This is a positive outcome for patients and the local community.”

This means that registered patients will be cared for by the current Cross Hands and Tumble Medical Partnership team until March 31, 2024. They will then be cared for by the Amman Tawe Partnership from April 1, 2024.

Patients will automatically be transferred and will not need to do anything. There are currently discussions taking place about staff and premises which are hoped to ensure as smooth a transition as possible.

The health board recognises and appreciates the support of the community to the team at Cross Hands and Tumble Medical Partnership and is sure that they will welcome and support Dr Williams and the Amman Tawe Partnership.

For further information, please call 0300 303 8322 (option 5) or email ask.hdd@wales.nhs.uk