The tribute to Dr Abdul-Razaq Abdullah was revealed at Rainham Health Centre in Upminster Road South on December 4.
Dr Abdul-Razaq died in 2020 at the age of 68 after contracting Covid-19, which saw him spend a month being treated at Queen’s Hospital.
Described as a “gentle giant” by patients and colleagues, the father-of-five had worked with the NHS for over 30 years having come to the UK from Iraq in 1985.
Before he established his own GP surgery where he worked as a sole partner, he initially worked at the former Oldchurch Hospital in Romford.
The plaque has been funded by Margaret Mullane, MP for Dagenham and Rainham, and by the practice’s current management team, Operose Health.
Members of Dr Abdullah’s family were present for the unveiling, alongside former colleagues, members of the Patient Participation Group, local NHS representatives, and Margaret Mullane.
The MP said: “Dr Abdullah was a valued member of the Rainham and Wennington community and adored by many. He loved his work and always put patients first.
“I am glad we are able to commemorate him with this wonderful plaque, as this way, his life and work will never be forgotten.”
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Jordanna Hamberger, head of primary care at NHS North East London, described the plaque as the “perfect” tribute to his longs career with the NHS.
She said: “Dr Abdullah was a dedicated and compassionate GP who genuinely cared for his patients and was popular and respected among his colleagues, so the unveiling of this plaque – at the practice he founded – provides a very welcome and fitting tribute.
“It is the perfect way for his long service to the NHS, and his commitment to the local community in Rainham, to be honoured.”
