BOLTON patients suffering major trauma will now be taken to hospital in Salford.

The go-ahead has been given to Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust to become the lead for the Greater Manchester Major Trauma Service.

Currently paramedics must decide whether to send patients in Bolton to one of three major trauma centres in Greater Manchester — Wythenshawe, Manchester Royal Infirmary or Salford.

NHS England says it is an "important step" in saving lives and improving recovery for patients who have sustained multiple, serious injuries that could result in death or serious disability.

Heather Edwards, head of communications at the hospital, said that patients in Bolton would see no change.

She said: "Major trauma centres care for those patients with the most complex or multiple injuries — including those that affect organs or the brain — and Salford already take Bolton patients for this.

"There will not be any change for patients in our area."

The move will also not affect Healthier Together.

The public body said that bringing services together at one hospital will also mean faster transfer to hospital as paramedics no longer need to make a decision on where to go.

Dr Chris Brookes, Salford Royal's executive medical director and clinical director for Greater Manchester Major Trauma service, said: "Staff at Salford Royal are looking forward to providing high quality care to major trauma patients from across the conurbation and will be working with colleagues across the network to ensure patients receive reliable major trauma care.

"A key component of these new arrangements will be increased focus on rehabilitation care post major trauma with particular attention on neuro-rehabilitation for those patients who have suffered head injuries."

The change will take place in a phased way, NHS England said.

Although work will begin immediately it will take around two years for the full plan to be completed.

NHS England said it would continue to engage with the public throughout any changes to services.