More than 4,5000 patients in Crossmaglen have been dealt a huge blow after it was announced that Rathkeeland House Surgery will no longer operate from the end of August.
The surgery, currently run by siblings Drs Brid and Kevin Allen, announced that they have handed back their GP contract to the SPPG (Health Board).
The surgery has been operating in the area since 2016 and was, in 2024, employing 18 staff members.
However, the doctors say the practice “is no longer sustainable in its current state.”
In a statement, the Allens said: “It is with regret that we have to inform you, our patients, that we have handed back our GP contract to the Health Board.
“This means that from the end of August 2025, we will no longer be GP partners at Rathkeeland House Surgery.
“We understand this may cause concern, but we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all our patients. We will share more information as soon as we have it and will do everything possible to support you during this time.
“Due to the well-publicised lack of funding in the GP sector and increasing costs, we have struggled over the past few years, and we now have to accept that our practice is no longer sustainable in its current state.
“We will remain as GPs for the next six months, and in this time, the SPPG will implement a process for the future of the surgery and provision of General Medical Services to the Crossmaglen community.
“We will be actively engaging in this process to help facilitate a smooth transition to the arrangement, which will ultimately be the decision of the SPPG. At this time, we would like to reassure patients that GP services will continue for the next six months, and you need not take any action regarding your registration at the practice.
“It has been a pleasure and a privilege to serve the people of Crossmaglen, and we have valued your support and friendship over the years. Lastly, we would like to extend our thanks to our loyal staff, who have supported us from our arrival at the surgery a decade ago.”
Newry and Armagh MLA Aoife Finnegan described the news as a “crisis” for the area.
“I want to express my deep concern over the recent news regarding the closure of Rathkeeland House Surgery. This situation is incredibly concerning for our community,” she said.
“I will be reaching out to the Health Minister urgently to arrange a meeting and discuss how his department plans to respond to this crisis.
“It is essential that the Department of Health collaborates with patients and GPs to ensure that local people can continue to access vital health services.
“We must support our GPs in managing additional patient loads and ensure that already-stretched practices are not placed under further strain.
“General practice is a crucial pillar of community healthcare, and it’s imperative that we all work together to guarantee that key services can continue to be delivered to the residents of Crossmaglen and beyond.”
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