Temporary changes to Shropshire blood services during coronavirus pandemic
Temporary changes are being made to blood services in Shropshire during the coronavirus pandemic.
Health bosses say it will help to ensure there are sufficient staff to provide a safe service and minimise the risk to both patients and staff coming into contact with others who may have the virus.
From Friday, to facilitate social distancing the drop-in phlebotomy service at Princess Royal Hospital in Telford, Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, Bridgnorth Community Hospital and Whitchurch Community Hospital will no longer provide a walk-in service for patients.
Blood tests will still be provided where there is an essential need and by appointment only.
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During the coronavirus pandemic all other routine blood tests will be postponed.
Patients who are not showing Covid-19 symptoms and would normally access drop-in phlebotomy clinics will be asked to attend one of four clinics relocated across the county by appointment only.
They will be at Bridgnorth Community Hospital, Whitchurch Community Hospital, Euston House in Telford town centre and The Lantern, Meadow Farm Drive, Shrewsbury.
The clinics will be open from 9am-1pm, Monday to Friday, except Euston House which will offer a four-day service and will not open on Thursdays.
Patients need to be referred by their GP or consultant.
Patients who have symptoms of coronavirus and require an essential blood test should telephone their GP practice in the first instance.
For 'high risk' patients who are shielding for 12 weeks, their GP or consultant will refer them to Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust which will provide either a home visiting service or, if appropriate, an appointment to attend St Michael’s Clinic in Shrewsbury.
