New Melton Mowbray GPs hailed as 'skilled and passionate clinicians'

The town's only doctors' surgery apologised to patients back in July for delays in replacing a number of its GPs, some of whom had left at short notice.

We reported that the Sage Cross Street practice said it had to bring in locums to cover the gaps in the clinical team and was working hard to take on new permanent GPs at a ‘challenging’ time for the primary care sector.

But last month, Latham House said it had recruited five new GPs and was preparing to open up a new clinic site, in the former Jupes shop on Sherrard Street, and was also planning to staff its Asfordby surgery full time.

Most of those new doctors have now joined the practice with the other set to start seeing patients next month.

Dr Matthew Riley, GP and CEO at Latham House, said: "This year has brought several changes within our GP team, and we’re excited to introduce the talented new doctors who have joined – or will soon be joining – our Practice.

“These appointments reflect our continued investment in growing our clinical team and ensuring that every patient receives the continuity of care and attention they deserve.

“Recruiting experienced GPs remains a national challenge, but we’re proud to have successfully attracted skilled and passionate clinicians to Latham House.

"Each new team member brings valuable expertise and enthusiasm to support the health needs of our community.”

Dr Morenikeji Olaniyi was the first of the five to join, starting work in August following the retirement of one of the practice’s long-standing GPs.

She recently completed her GP training in Leicestershire and brings a wealth of experience from her earlier career as a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in Lagos, Nigeria.

She also holds a diploma from the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (UK). Her clinical interests include women’s health, minor surgery, and medical education.

Dr Ying Gong joined in September and is known for her positivity and has particular interests in women’s health, health inequalities, and medical education.

Last month, Dr Ahmed Bhola joined from a GP Practice in Leicester city - he is passionate about musculoskeletal medicine and men’s health.

Dr Khaled Elokr joined this month from a Lincolnshire surgery and he has specialist interests in minor surgery and musculoskeletal medicine.

The last of the five GPs to join is Dr Ibraz Hussain, who was formerly an NHS audiologist before training as a GP, and from next month he will bring a unique blend of clinical expertise and patient-centred care.

In a mesage to patients, Dr Riley added: “We understand that changes to familiar faces can sometimes cause uncertainty, and we want to thank our patients for their understanding and patience during this period of transition.

"Please be assured that your wellbeing and continuity of care remain our highest priorities.

“With these new appointments, we look forward to a strong and stable year ahead continuing to provide the trusted, high-quality care our community deserves.”

The local health board recently paused plans to create a second GP surgery in Melton Mowbray due to funding shortfalls and a slow uptake of new patients at Latham House.