Celebrity Doctor, Dr Hilary Jones, launches ‘Think Which Service’ podcast series during National Self-Care Week

Dr Hilary Jones, known across the country as the resident doctor from ‘Good Morning Britain’, has teamed up with NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and health professionals working across the area to launch a brand-new four-part podcast series. 

The series launched this Self-Care Week (13-19 November 2023), encourages people to make informed decisions about where best to seek help for their health conditions, and empowers residents to keep well over winter, with a range of helpful hints and tips for self-care. 

Following the success of the first ‘Think Which Service?’ podcast series with Dr Ranj Singh, this year Dr Hilary Jones has joined the team, focusing on a range of hot topics including women’s health, cancer, children’s health and extended healthcare teams in General Practice. Joined by local health professionals Dr Hilary will lead insightful and engaging conversations, exploring the topics in depth, helping listeners to self-care and signposts to the appropriate services. 

‘Think Women’s Health’, the first episode in the new series, launches today. The episode features Dr Joanne Ritchie, Consultant Gynaecologist at the Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust, and Dr Melanie Thompson, GP Partner at Woodside Medical Practice. The episode focuses on the most common health issues impacting women and the practical steps women can take to improve their health and wellbeing. 

Speaking about the campaign, Dr Hilary Jones said: “I am delighted to be hosting the second series of the 'Think Which Service' podcast for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin. This podcast provides a unique platform to address common healthcare concerns and help listeners make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. 

“For this first podcast Dr Melanie Thompson, Dr Joanne Ritchie and I talk in-depth about women’s health including menopause, mental health, cancer screening and other health issues that are unique to women. 

“In the upcoming episodes, we will be discussing cancer including recognising the signs and symptoms, the importance of doing 'self-checks' and attending regular screenings.  We’ll talk about children's and young people’s health and we’ll do a podcast dedicated to General Practice and the different healthcare professionals you might find at your doctor's surgery who can help you get the right care when you need it.  

“Join me and my esteemed guests for thought-provoking discussions, practical advice, and expert guidance on navigating healthcare services effectively. By exploring the various services available across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and providing advice on ‘self-care’, we aim to empower people to access the appropriate care when they need it most and keep well over winter.” 

Dr Melanie Thompson, GP Partner at Woodside Medical Practice, commented on the first podcast, said: “Women’s health is an important specialism in its own right, and is relevant for women at all life stages.  On the ‘Think Women’s Health’ podcast we delve into what self-care tips women can do to improve their health and wellbeing, focusing on topics such a menopause through to cancer. 

“I have always had a passion for women’s health and one of my goals is to drive awareness of the things that affect us, empower women to look after themselves and help get rid of stigmas that may be attached to women’s health issues.” 

Dr Nick White, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “After the success the ‘Think Which Service?’ podcast series last year we are delighted to launch the second season podcast series hosted by the esteemed GP, Dr Hilary Jones. 

“The ‘Think’ campaign aims to empower residents living in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin to stay well and use services appropriately this winter, with the aim of reducing demand on General Practice, reducing the pressure on A&Es and reducing ambulance handover delays.   

“These ‘Think’ podcasts are an innovative way of reaching a different audience, including the younger generation, as it’s important that everyone in our population is empowered to choose well.” 

‘Think Which Service’ podcast series with Dr Hilary Jones, along with the episodes with Dr Ranj Singh will all be available to listen to here. 

To find out more about the ‘Think Which Service’ campaign, self-care and the range of local health and care services available in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, visit the campaign website here.