FROM next month, Dudley residents can see a doctor without an appointment when the first “walk-in” medical centre in the borough is opened.

The new facility will be based at the Holly Hall Clinic in Stourbridge Road and will offer fast and convenient access to NHS doctors and nurses.

From July, patients will be able to be seen from 8am - 8pm, 365 days of the year, without an appointment.

Anyone can use the centre, including visitors to the borough and even those not registered with a GP practice.

The centre will offer all the services expected from a family doctor or nurse, ranging from childhood immunisations to medical prescriptions.

And as well as providing advice, the clinic will also be able to offer treatment for minor injuries such as sprains, strains, cuts and bruises.

Specialised services for those with heart failure, diabetes, alcohol issues and learning disabilities will also be provided.

Rachel Harris, chairman of Dudley Primary Care Trust, said: “This will be a new way for people to access NHS healthcare in Dudley.

“It will provide more choice for those registered with a local GP and also provide a service to those not registered or who live outside the borough.”

Helen Kelly, operations director for Primecare, which is operating the centre, said: “I am delighted we have secured an excellent location at Holly Hall for the new walk-in centre.

“Primecare currently provides GP out-of hours services across the borough and we are confident this new service will be of great benefit to people living in or visiting the area.”