MAJOR changes to the way patients access blood tests at hospitals are being introduced.
Health chiefs announced today that from Monday, November 29, patients attending phlebotomy clinics at St Helens and Whiston Hospitals and community clinics run by the NHS Trust will now need to book an appointment in advance.
They say the new appointment system will offer "a smoother and more efficient patient experience, allowing patients to book in advance and choose a time to attend that suits them, while reducing the amount of waiting time in clinic".
In the region of 900 people are referred for a blood test with one of the trust's clinics each week.
In a statement a St Helens and Knowsley NHS Trust spokesperson said: "Those in need of blood tests will be able to book an appointment at their chosen STHK phlebotomy clinic, including the Urgent Treatment Centre in St Helens, online at www.sthk.nhs.uk available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or via telephone on 0808 196 4500 between noon and 3pm, Monday to Friday from the November 29."
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