PEOPLE in need of out-of-hours medical care in Wiltshire will now be able to access services through a new, single provider.
NHS Wiltshire has commissioned Wiltshire Medical Services (WMS) to run all out-of-hours medical and dental services starting April 1.
Previously the out-of-hours services have been provided through four different companies, with WMC providing care in the Kennet, north and west Wiltshire areas.
Jo Howes, community engagement manager for NHS Wiltshire, gave a presentation at Amesbury Area Board last week about the new service and how it will work.
She said the company, established by local GPs, is in the top ten per cent of providers in county and does not use locum or agency doctors.
Instead, it prefers to use local medical staff who work in Wiltshire during the day and therefore have knowledge of the areas they are covering.
It will operate from eight bases, including one at Salisbury District Hospital and one at Amesbury Health Centre.
People needing to access the services will have to call 0300 111 5717 and talk to a doctor or nurse, who will give advice over the phone or arrange an appointment at the centre or a home visit.
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