THE FUTURE of some local care services hang in the balance after they were closed due to the pandemic.
South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust and South Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) temporarily closed the Minor Injuries Unit at Stratford Hospital and the First Aid Centre at Ellen Badger Hospital in Shipston so staff could care for patients where they were most needed.
But healthcare bosses say both services will remain closed to ensure staff can be redeployed.
And the trust and CCG will now be looking at how to use the Minor Injuries Unit and the First Aid Centre.
A spokeswoman said: “Coronavirus is still affecting how healthcare services are run and it will do for the foreseeable future. Having the right staff available to work in critical areas is key to managing coronavirus effectively and ensures patients have access to the right care at the right time.
“To ensure health services in south Warwickshire can meet the needs of our population, consideration is being given to how we use best use the Minor Injuries Unit and the First Aid Centre in the future. This work is in its very early stages and we do not know what all potential options are until we have listened to the views of local people.
“Only after we have fully engaged with our local population will a decision be made.”
Residents are reminded for medical advice to call NHS 111 or contact their local pharmacy. Pharmacies can give advice for common winter illnesses such as coughs and colds, sinusitis, earaches and sore throats.
Those needing treatment for a serious accident and emergency, such as unconsciousness, heavy blood loss, suspected heart attack, stroke or broken bones should visit the emergency department at Warwick Hospital.
