THE contract to transport thousands of patients to and from routine hospital appointments in Worcestershire has now been awarded.

Existing provider West Midlands Ambulance Service has won the contract again and will begin to provide an “enhanced, seven-day service” transporting more than 82,000 people a year from Wednesday, April 1.

The patient transport service is in place for patients with a medical need requiring transport to and from premises providing NHS healthcare and between NHS healthcare providers.

Following a procurement process the three clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) in Worcestershire chose West Midlands Ambulance Service for the contract.

Chris Emerson, head of commissioning and service redesign for the three Worcestershire CCGs, said: “This is a very important service for many people across Worcestershire who because of clinical circumstance require transport assistance to and from healthcare facilities.

“The enhanced service will provide a more responsive and cohesive service both to patients and healthcare professionals who book transport for their patients.

“We very much look forward to working with West Midlands Ambulance Service to ensure that the thousands of patients who use the patient transport service every year have access to a high quality dynamic service.”

Anthony Marsh, chief executive of West Midlands Ambulance Service, added: “It is very encouraging to have won a contract in what is a tough market place.

“I am delighted for all our staff and I am sure we will continue to provide an excellent service to the people of the county.”