MIUs are also a quicker and more comfortable route to care for many conditions compared to visiting A&E departments that are prioritised for urgent and life-threatening conditions.
On average, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde patients who visit Minor Injuries Units are seen, treated, and discharged in three hours or less (from arrival to leaving care).
Recent figures from NHSGGC reveal that two-thirds of people who self-present at A&Es could receive the help they need elsewhere.
Wait times can be longer at A&E (Image: Jeff J Mitchell) “There are so many alternatives to A&E that will get you seen more quickly,” said Nicola Baxter, Lead Nurse at the Minor Injuries Unit at New Victoria Hospital.
“For example, at our Minor Injuries Units across NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, most patients are treated and sent home within two hours. Even at our larger sites, the average patient is treated and sent home in just over three hours.
“That’s a huge difference compared to our A&E departments.”
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She added: “There’s often a misconception that MIUs are second best to A&E, but the MIUs are fully equipped, and staff have a vast experience in dealing with issues such as breaks, minor burns, and stiches, so it’s a better place to treat these.
“Why spend hours in an A&E waiting room when you could be treated in a place like this? All you have to do is call NHS24 on 111.
“We understand that when someone has an accident or is unwell, our instinct is to get help as quickly as possible. If the condition is life-threatening, you should always call 999 or visit A&E.
“But if it’s not very urgent, A&E might not be the best place to be. You could be asked to go elsewhere for help, and if you do need to wait, it could be for hours while sicker people are seen first.”
This winter, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has been running a campaign to help people access the care that’s most appropriate for their needs. By following a few simple suggestions, you can be seen more quickly, more easily, and often from the comfort of your own home.