STRUGGLING surgeries across Clacton, Frinton and Walton have been given rock-bottom ratings by a health watchdog – but bosses have defended the low rankings.

Failing surgeries are put into band one by the Care Quality Commission, which identifies them as a high priority and in need of a full inspection.

Clacton has three surgeries with a lowly band one rating – Old Road Medical Practice, Dr HI Faerestrand and Partners, and Dr Ildiko Spelt.

Walton Surgery and Caradoc Surgery in Frinton are also in band one, while Clacton’s Ranworth Surgery is in band two.

Just two surgeries in the area, St James in Clacton and The Surgery in Thorpe, have been put into band six – the highest ranking.

Ranworth practice manager Andrew Sarek said: “We are not perfect, no practice is, but I certainly believe our patient type plays a big role in how we operate.

“I don’t think there is much of a difference in the care provided between ourselves and St James, but they are in band six because they don’t have the same prescription issues.

“The ratings can be a useful tool for improvement, but they need to be looked at in depth.”

For the full story, including a breakdown of surgery ratings across the area, read the Clacton Gazette - out now.