EVESHAM’s Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) which closed at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic has now reopened.
Based at the town’s community hospital on Waterside, the MIU can support anyone with a minor injury such as a small cut or burn, sprain, strain or suspected fracture.
Until this week the closest units open to Vale residents were either in Malvern or Bromsgrove.
In addition anyone who has a minor injury is advised to contact NHS111 by phone or online to get advice before turning up at a unit.
If, after describing the injury, further investigation is required a video call can be arranged and then if a face to face appointment or x-ray is necessary a time slot can be booked in one of the units.
Although those who walk-in will still be supported, this new approach will help reduce unnecessary journeys and limit the numbers of people sat in an MIU waiting room at any one time.
Phil Shakeshaft, Minor Injury Unit Lead for Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, said: “It is much more appropriate to use an MIU than to attend A&E if you have a minor injury.
“A&E should only be used for emergency or life threatening conditions. Often the waiting times in our MIUs are significantly less than an A&E department and we have also taken all necessary steps to ensure our units are safe and can adhere to social distancing measures.”
Anyone attending a unit should wear a face mask, and we are also asking that only one person attends if possible.
Visit www.hacw.nhs.uk/MIU for more.
