Care Minister and Peterborough MP Visit Thistlemoor Medical Centre

On 14th February 2025, Thistlemoor Medical Centre was honoured to host Stephen Kinnock MP, Minister of State for Care, during a visit to Peterborough this week. Accompanied by local MP Andrew Pakes, Mr Kinnock toured the centre’s facilities, including the newly established Endoscopy and Surgical Unit, operated in collaboration with NexEndo Healthcare, as well as Graham Young Pharmacy.

During his visit, the Minister met with members of the Thistlemoor team to gain a deeper understanding of the integrated approach to healthcare delivery within the community. The centre’s collaborative model—bringing together general practice, pharmacy, mental health support, and specialist surgical services—was highlighted as a key driver in preventing serious illnesses and reducing the need for hospital admissions.

Speaking our healthcare team, Mr Kinnock expressed his admiration for Thistlemoor’s approach:

“It’s fantastic to witness the collaboration between pharmacy, general practice, mental health, and the new endoscopy unit. Our focus is on moving from hospital care to community, from treating illness to promoting prevention, and embracing digital advancements. Thistlemoor really embodies the key elements we envision in our 10-year plan for the future of our health and care system.”

He further praised the centre’s patient-focused ethos, stating:

“There is a real patient-centred approach to care. The whole set-up is here, which is better for the system overall as people don’t have to be referred into hospital when they don’t need to be, and they can get the care they need in their local community. There is upstream work too, preventing people from getting sick—and prevention is always better than cure. Thistlemoor really does embody that virtue.”

Thistlemoor Medical Centre has long been at the forefront of community-based healthcare innovation, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective treatment closer to home. The integration of endoscopy services within a primary care setting is a significant step in reducing waiting times and easing pressure on hospital services.

The visit also provided an opportunity for discussion on the broader role of community healthcare providers in delivering preventative care and managing long-term conditions more effectively outside of hospital settings. Both MPs recognised the importance of facilities like Thistlemoor in shaping the future of the NHS by promoting a more holistic, joined-up approach to patient care.

Following the visit, Thistlemoor Medical Centre expressed its gratitude to Stephen Kinnock MP and Andrew Pakes MP for their time and engagement, reaffirming its commitment to working alongside national and local leaders to drive forward patient-centred innovation in primary care.