A new chapter for Urgent Care in Haslemere | News

Access to urgent medical care in Haslemere has taken a significant step forward with the re-designation of the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) as an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC).

This upgrade means that patients can now receive more comprehensive care for a wider range of urgent but non-life-threatening health conditions closer to home.

The UTC is open every day from 8am to 5pm, with the last walk-in patient at 4pm. It now sees patients aged one and over with non-life-threatening but urgent medical conditions that require prompt attention.

This includes a wide variety of minor injuries and illnesses such as sprains and strains, suspected broken bones, minor cuts and burns, fevers, rashes, wound infections and more. The team can also help with eye and ear problems, abdominal pain, and emergency contraception. 

Staffed by experienced emergency practitioners and doctors, the Haslemere UTC works in close partnership with the Emergency Department at Royal Surrey in Guildford. Patients can expect timely, professional care for urgent conditions that don’t require a visit to an Emergency Department (A&E).

This change is part of a national NHS initiative to improve access to urgent care and ease pressure on busy Emergency Departments. It also helps to reduce unnecessary travel and long waits, giving people access to the care they need, closer to home.

Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust has invested significantly in upgrading the unit, with the valued support of the Haslemere Hospital League of Friends, who raised over £100,000 to help fund new equipment. As part of the upgrade, a new Point of Care Testing room has also been added, enabling blood tests to be carried out on-site, reducing the need for patients to travel to Guildford for urgent investigations.

To reduce waiting times and ensure that patients are seen at the right place, those needing urgent but not life-threatening care are advised to call NHS111. They will then be directed to the most appropriate service and if the UTC is suitable, a pre-booked appointment time may be arranged. 

Visit our UTC webpage for more information about opening hours, services and how to access care.