A SOUTHEND GP who has run his own practice in the borough for more than 30 years has announced plans to retire.

Dr Krishna Chaturvedi has decided to reduce his workload and begin a phased retirement.

More than 3,000 patients registered with Dr Krishna Chaturvedi at the Southbourne Grove Surgery in Westcliff have now being informed of his decision.

He will continue to work as a GP at the surgery but the management of the practice will be transferred to another surgery.

Dr Chaturvedi said: “I thoroughly enjoy working as a GP in Southend, but I have to accept that at some point I must retire and am very pleased that I have been able to take a phased approach to this.

“My priority remains the welfare of my patients and this will ensure a continuous and uninterrupted service for them.

“It is a humbling experience to serve our patients and the local population but I have always had great support and team work from my practice staff including my wife who was also my practice manager.”

Dr Chaturvedi approached the NHS Southend Clinical Commissioning Group with his plan.

The group then ran a selection process to identify a local practice to take over the management of the Southbourne Grove Surgery.

The Pall Mall surgery successfully applied to do this, and took over the contract from yesterday.

Ian Stidston, accountable officer at NHS Southend Clinical Commissioning Group, said, “It is always sad when a valued local GP begins to think about retirement and this is obviously a decision Dr Chaturvedi made after much thought and consideration.

“We were very happy to support him in taking a phased approach to this and are very respectful of his wishes to ensure the best care and a continuous service for his patients.”

All patients are automatically transferred to Pall Mall.

Patients do not need to re-register and will continue to be seen at the Southbourne Grove Surgery.

Although patients have transferred to Pall Mall automatically, they can approach alternative practices should they wish to.