Haverhill GP hanging up stethoscope after almost 20 years

A Suffolk GP has praised patients and colleagues after hanging up her stethoscope following almost two decades of caring for her local community.

Dr Fiona Andrews is retiring from her role at Suffolk GP Federation’s Christmas Maltings and Clements Practice in Haverhill.

She has been at the surgery for 17 years and will be replaced by Dr David Brandon, who grew up in Haverhill and previously worked for an award-winning practice in Stowmarket.

Dr Andrews said: “It has been a privilege to work at the Christmas Maltings and Clements Practice.

“I have looked after many patients, both in my role as a GP and as a volunteer responder for Suffolk Accident Rescue Service.

“Thank you to my colleagues and the people of Haverhill for their support and friendship over the years. I shall miss them all.”

As the new Clinical Lead for Christmas Maltings and Clements, Dr Brandon will see patients in surgery on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

He will work for the West Suffolk Hospital dermatology clinic on Tuesdays and will be undertaking managerial duties on Thursdays.

He has particular interests in dermatology and skin cancer, along with promoting the benefits of exercise for all age groups.

Dr Brandon (pictured right), who joins the practice at the beginning of December, said: “I’m delighted to be returning to Haverhill.

“I’m very much aware of the challenges facing the town but I’m excited about driving forward improvements, particularly in terms of preventative healthcare, health education and communication.

“We have some fantastic exercise facilities in Haverhill and I can’t wait to start working with local community organisations to promote whole-population health and wellbeing.”

Christmas Maltings and Clements Practice is managed by Suffolk GP Federation, a not for profit organisation that works to protect the interests of general practice and ensure patients continue to receive the very best care.