Staff at a west Suffolk GP surgery are celebrating after receiving a ‘good’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

Brandon Medical Practice, which provides services to more than 5,500 patients, was previously graded as ‘requires improvement’ by the health watchdog.

Partners at the practice – which is a member of Suffolk Primary Care – said they were particularly pleased to have been recognised for their safe, effective and responsive care.

Inspectors looked at the quality of care given to specific population groups including older people, those with poor mental health and young people – all of which were rated good.

Emmanuel Obiabo, GP at Brandon Medical Practice, said: “All our staff work very hard for our patients so it’s pleasing to have that work recognised.

“We put our patients first and, despite the challenges facing the NHS, are determined to continue to do our very best to support their good health and wellbeing.”

The extended skills mix at the practice, which now includes GPs, nurses, health practitioners, physiotherapists, an emergency care practitioner and reception and administrative staff, was also highlighted by the CQC.

The health watchdog’s report also praised management at the practice.

It read: “There was a clear leadership structure and staff felt supported by management. The practice proactively sought feedback from staff, which it acted on.

“Staff told us they were able to undertake development opportunities.”

Suffolk Primary Care (SPC) is a partnership of 11 GP surgeries working together to share best practice and tackle the challenges currently facing the NHS.

Dr Nick Rayner, SPC Executive Chairman, said: “Since we formed last year we have been introducing changes at all our member practices - finding ways to improve services and share best practice so that our patients receive the best possible care.

“It’s great to see that these changes are having a positive effect and we’re delighted that the hard work of everyone involved at Brandon Medical Practice has been recognised by the CQC.”