WORK has started at the Alexandra Hospital on a new purpose-built clinic to treat patients with muscular and joint injuries.

The Musculoskeletal Centre will be the latest addition to the orthopaedic services department at the hospital when work is completed this autumn.

It will provide care for patients with both major and minor muscular, joint and tendon injuries.

It will also enable care to take place in more appropriate surroundings for patients with a variety of orthopaedic and rheumatology conditions.

A Worcestershire Acute Hospital NHS Trust spokesman said: "The new facility will provide a much smoother pathway for the patient with everything located in one area rather than the current two separate locations, with much more space.

"Currently, more than 25,000 patients each year pass though the clinics. The building will also have a dedicated x-ray facility which will mean all diagnostic investigations will be carried out within the clinic, providing a faster, more cohesive service."

As well as the improvement to clinical services, patients will also have access to an education room within the complex.