Polwarth Medical Practice Closure
Updated: October 2025
Q: Why is the practice closing?
A: Polwarth Medical Practice is currently managed by Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership (EHSCP) and not independently like most other GP Practices.
Following a review by EHSCP and NHS Lothian it was agreed that patients would be better managed by a neighbouring, or more local GP practice, which can provide a greater choice of services.
Q: When is the practice closing?
A: The practice’s last day of opening will be Friday 28 November. After this date, the team will no longer be providing medical services from this location.
In the meantime, you should continue to contact the practice as normal for appointments and GP services on 0131 536 9898. We are open Monday-Friday 8am-6pm.
If you require urgent care when the practice is closed, please contact 111.
Q: Do I need to register with a new GP Practice?
A: The majority of patients currently receiving care from Polwarth Medical Practice will be automatically registered to their new GP Practice. Details of this are included in the letter you received. There is no further action for you to take.
If you have not received a letter, please email: loth.primarycareenquiries@nhs.scot
Q: Will I still be able to get my repeat prescriptions?
A: Please request any repeat prescriptions that you may require over this period before the practice closure date.
Once registered with a new practice, you can request repeat prescriptions as normal through them.
Q: I have a pre-arranged appointment or review of after the closure date. What should I do?
A: The practice team will be in touch to cancel this and rearrange before Friday 28 November if required.
Q: I am a vulnerable patient / have complex needs — what should I do?
A: Please contact loth.polwarthpatientenquiries@nhs.scot before Friday 28November, and the team will ensure both your needs and any support you require are communicated to your new GP Practice ahead of time.
Q: What will happen to my medical records?
A: Your medical records will be securely transferred to the new GP practice.
Q: How can my new GP Practice care for lots more patients?
A: All the GP practices taking on additional patients will have the capacity to care for them efficiently.
Some practices already have space for extra patients and others will recruit more staff. Some will also expand their premises so they can offer more appointments and services.
Q: Will it be more difficult for me to get an appointment?
A: Your new GP Practice will be able to tell you about their appointment system and the range of services available.
Larger practices generally have more GPs and other healthcare professionals that you can speak to in person or over the phone. There may also be more ways for you to access services online.
Q: Are Polwarth Medical Practice GP’s / staff being transferred to another practice?
A: NHS Lothian employed staff will be redeployed to another GP practice or health and social care partnership role.
Q: Does this mean I will have to see a different GP?
A: Your new GP Practice will be able to advise you of the range of GPs, health professionals and services that will be available to you.
Q: Will I be able to choose which GP Practice I am reallocated to?
A: The GP Practice you are reallocated to has been determined by where you live and the GP Practice boundaries to ensure you can continue to access care quickly and conveniently, including emergency care.
Q: How can I make sure I get the right care in the right place?
A: Please also remember you can access the right care in the right place by:
- – Visiting nhsinform.scot for advice on common symptoms, self-help guidance and a list of local health services
- – Going to your local pharmacy for advice on minor illnesses, such as colds or an upset stomach, or to use the Pharmacy First service to be prescribed medicines
- – Calling NHS 24 on 111 day or night and when your GP is closed for urgent medical advice, or to be allocated a minor injuries appointment
- – Visiting your local dentist for dental problems or your optician for eye conditions
Always call 999 in a medical emergency
Q: How can I raise any concerns I might have?
A: Please contact loth.polwarthpatientenquiries@nhs.scot – the Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership Primary Care Team will support you.
