30th September 2025
Hillhead Family Practice, 33 Stewartstown Road, Belfast BT11 9FZ, has completed a c. £0.39m upgrade (31 May 2024) funded by the Department of Health’s Primary Care Infrastructure Team in partnership with the practice and the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG). The project supports full roll-out of the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) model and improves delivery of GMS services.
A three-room extension and internal reconfiguration have created an MDT Physio consulting room, an interview/therapy room for MDT professionals, and an additional GMS consulting room. Before the works, clinical rooms were operating at or near full capacity, so additional space was essential.
The practice can now provide improved core GMS services and better access to physio, mental health and social care in line with the MDT model. Continuity has improved, waiting times are reduced, patients reach the right professional more quickly, and GPs are better supported in complex cases through a joined-up, team-based approach. The refurbished reception and waiting area have also improved patient flow, privacy and day-to-day efficiency.
Lisa, Healthcare Assistant, said: “Having access to the new consultation room has made a noticeable difference in the way I care for patients. The space is bright, well-ventilated, and thoughtfully designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. Everything I need is easily accessible, and the updated equipment allows for more efficient assessments and treatments.”
Dr Aidan Thompson, GP Partner, said: “The extension and upgrade to the building has allowed us to accommodate full Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) rollout. … Its improved continuity, reduced waiting times for patients presenting on-site and the reassurance that the MDT team can manage helped support the GP’s in the care of their patients. Our patients benefit from quicker access to the right professional at the right time, and as a GP, I feel better supported to manage complex cases in a truly joined-up way. This team-based approach is the future of primary care.”
Emma, Admin Manager, said: “The newly refurbished reception area has completely transformed the way we work and interact with patients. The space is brighter, more organised, and much more welcoming… With improved layout and modern furniture, it’s now easier to manage the flow of patients and maintain privacy during conversations.”
Reception desk
Patient comment: “From the moment I walked into the newly refurbished surgery, I felt at ease. The building is modern, clean, and thoughtfully laid out… The reception staff were friendly and welcoming, and I was seen promptly by the GP.”
Martin Hayes, Programme Director, said: “Supporting investment in GP practices is a key priority for the DoH. Approximately £5.5 million of funding has been provided across the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust area in the last 7 years, to increase capacity within primary care premises. I was delighted to visit the practice to see and hear about the significant benefits of the investment.”
Photos: surgery entrance (David Fowlie, Practice Manager), consulting room, reception and patient waiting area, and reception desk.