GPs representative Dr James Goodman said the formation of a primary care trust would improve the quality of patient care in the district.

Wyre Forest GP Association chairman Dr Goodman said not only would it improve the care patients receive at home but it would also manage the important transition between home and hospital.

He said: "I think this will genuinely and significantly enhance the care for all patients within Wyre Forest, South Shropshire and the surrounding area and I think patients elsewhere in the county.

"They will want to use some of the facilities that are available here."

Doctors say the trust will give patients more of a say in their health care.

Under the trust doctors will be funded directly by the regional health authority rather than the present system which involves Worcestershire Health Authority providing funding and Primary Care Group tasked with organising care.