People across Shropshire are being asked to share their views on the GP Out of Hours Service, before a new contract is offered.

Shropshire council has said that NHS Shropshire, Telford, and Wrekin are seeking the public’s opinions of The GP Out of Hours Service, which is currently delivered by ShropDoc, which provides medical care outside of General Practice hours.

Potential providers are now being invited to express their interest for the GP Out of Hours Service, which will help the trust to understand what options for the service are currently available.

As part of the process, the trust has launched a Shropshire wide initiative, running until Sunday September 15, to gain “important patient and resident feedback which will be used to inform the service design”.

Gemma Smith, director of commissioning at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said:

“Work is currently underway by NHS STW to re-procure the GP Out of Hours Service. This is part of our usual commissioning business cycle.

“Taking our statutory duties into account, we are progressing with a formal procurement process whilst recognising the crucial role that the GP Out of Hours plays within the local health and care system.

“Our intention is to minimise any impact on our patients and residents as far as possible and we are committed on ensuring continued good access for patients”.