Dr Steven Kinnear will end his general medical services contract at Silverbirch Medical Practice in Bangor on May 31. The practice serves 2,000 patients. The Department of Health's Strategic Planning and Performance Group now handles finding a replacement contractor.

The Department of Health confirmed Dr Kinnear gave the required three months' notice to terminate his single-handed contract. It advertised the contract on March 11 with applications closing March 25. Letters went out to patients about the changes.

Dr Kinnear stated he felt privileged to treat patients for almost 10 years. He described the choice to return the contract as difficult after careful thought. He thanked patients and colleagues for their support.

North Down MP Alex Easton, a patient at the practice, contacted the Health Minister. Easton expressed worry over attracting a permanent doctor. He noted other local practices lack space for new patients.

Easton also raised issues about the practice staff's future. The practice operates on Silverbirch Road.