News

As it gets colder and festive celebrations begin, demand for NHS urgent and emergency services increases.

To help ease pressures on emergency services, the NHS in Worcestershire is urging the public to use their local minor injury units (MIUs) and other alternatives to emergency departments this winter.

MIUs are open across Worcestershire every day throughout Christmas and the New Year. They offer expert treatment for injuries such as cuts, sprains, minor burns and eye injuries.

“The NHS is here for you if you need us over the festive season” said Scott Parker, Director of Operations and Transformation, “our dedicated teams are ready every day, including bank holidays, to provide expert care.”

“We want to make sure everyone gets the right care in the right place and choosing MIUs for minor injuries helps keep emergency departments free for those with serious or life-threatening conditions.”

People attending MIUs with minor injuries are often seen and treated more quickly than if they go to an emergency department.

If you need treatment for a minor injury, you can use the NHS111 online service (for patients aged five and over) or call NHS 111 for advice. If required, an appointment will be booked for you at an MIU. Alternatively, you can walk into any Worcestershire MIU without an appointment.

Locations and opening times for local units can be found on the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust website (www.hacw.nhs.uk/MIU).

Please note that MIUs cannot treat illnesses. For minor illnesses, visit your local pharmacy for expert, confidential advice and medicines for ailments such as colds, tummy troubles, and more. For urgent but not life-threatening illnesses, use NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for guidance, including arranging out of hours GP appointments or emergency care if needed.