Message from Dr Sheridan:
I am writing to inform you that after 27 years as a partner at Parkstone Tower Practice and 36 years as a practicing doctor, I am retiring.
I am leaving the practice at the end of March 2021. It has been a very difficult decision for me, as there are so many aspects of my work which I still love, in particular the contact that I have with all of you. However, this feels like the right time to step back from my partnership role.
General Practice has changed in so many ways over these 27 years, but at its core, the trust you have placed in me has always felt like one of the great privileges of my career, and what I will take away with me is the memories of looking after my patients, often several generations of the same families. It has always been most rewarding to be involved in your healthcare over these years. Other highlights of my career include the provision of an ultrasound scanner service at Parkstone, my personal involvement in creating the Poole exercise referral programme and more recently, the formation of the Shore Medical Group with a blueprint for future patient-centred care. My four trips to North-East Ghana as a volunteer with the Afrikids organisation were a humbling experience which I will never forget. I came to a practice of 5 partners 27 years ago and am leaving as one of 26 partners, as well as outstanding nurse practitioners, nurses, HCAs, salaried doctors, physios and an exceptional administration and reception team. It has been an honour working with all of my colleagues.
Perhaps an enduring legacy for me is my contribution to training medical students and particularly GP registrars, many of whom are settled and working locally in the area. Over the years, I have often felt that I learned as much from them as they may have from me.
I have always tried to do the best for my patients and this is the thought I will cherish the most. I shall miss sharing your experiences. A year ago, the crisis we are currently living through would have seemed unimaginable. The impact of isolation, economic hardship, stress and illness has touched all of us. However, it has been a privilege to be involved in the great success of the vaccination programme and I would like to echo the legend that is Captain Tom in saying ‘The sun will shine on you again and the clouds will go away, tomorrow will be a good day’.
My very best wishes to you all
Dr Ed Sheridan
