Health chiefs are appealing to residents to use the Brent Urgent Care Centre rather than an A&E if someone is suffering from a non-life threatening illness or injury.
With Christmas around the corner, medics are keen to stress the centre located at Central Middlesex Hospital in Acton Lane, Park Royal, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and no appointments are needed.
Adults and children can be seen for a range of minor illnesses and injuries including: sprains and strains of ankles, wrists and knees; minor burns of small areas; cuts including those that may need stitches; ear infections; and minor broken bones such as toes, finger and collarbone.
The centre has access to x-ray facilities on site and its trained clinicians are able to dispense medication if needed.
Dr Altin Hoxha, lead GP at the centre, said: “Our experienced GPs and nurse practitioners can treat a broad range of minor injuries and illness.
“Since we opened in March 2011 we have helped to reduce pressures at local A&E departments. Patients with urgent, but not life-threatening conditions will be assessed and treated promptly.
“We can also help when your GP surgery is closed or if you cannot get a same day appointment.
“We’re passionate about giving you the best possible care and helping you to feel better, faster. That’s why we’re open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
The centre replaced the hospital’s A&E department which was closed in September.
Earlier this month Northwick Park Hospital in Watford Road, Sudbury, opened a new £21million casualty department to cope with the surge in patients since its closure.
London North West Healthcare NHS Trust (LNWH), which manages both hospitals, has come under fire in recent months for having the worst A&E waiting times in the country, its bed crisis, and falling ambulance response times.
The revamped unit includes a dedicated treatment area for children and 40 individual bays to allow patients greater privacy and is located closer to intensive care units and operating theatres.
Further information about the centre visit brenturgentcarecentre.nhs.uk.
Related link: Investigation launched into hospital trust’s A&E waiting time figures
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