Shropshire and Telford councils seek clarity on changes to Shropdoc. Councillors voice concerns, request an explanation.
Health leaders want Medvivo to run GP services. They say this change isn’t about cuts, and they also claim it isn’t “privatization.” Kelly Middleton, a Telford & Wrekin councillor, worries about this decision and wants the reasons made clear.
Bernie Bentick, a Shropshire councillor, wants the contract process paused if a decision isn’t made. Health leaders insist services will stay the same. Councillors want performance reports every three months that describe the contract results.
Bentick notes ShropDoc’s local reputation and their strong links with local services, including care providers and hospitals. Bentick says a petition gained over 12,000 signatures that aimed to “Save Our Shropdoc,” and he wants the process halted.
He wants more examination of the potential contract and urges engagement with locals and watchdogs before any changes. He also wants regular performance updates every three months, covering the out-of-hours contract quality.
NHS Shropshire made a statement that they want a good, affordable out-of-hours service that meets local needs. They stated the service details stay the same and the update is not a cost-cutting action; local staff and doctors will run it.
Face-to-face appointments will still exist at bases and through home visits. Shropshire Council will discuss this issue Thursday, and Telford & Wrekin’s council will meet the same evening.