Access Alternative Health Services To A&E

We would like to take the opportunity to once again ask for your/your teams support in taking every opportunity to encourage residents to access alternative appropriate pathways as below and linked. A&E is for serious accidents and emergencies that are life threatening and that accessing the right service to meet their needs may mean they are seen quicker.

Local pharmacies
Pharmacists are trained healthcare professionals who can easily help with minor illnesses, coughs, colds, earache, etc, they can also signpost to other NHS services if further treatment is needed.  Local pharmacy teams offer a fast and convenient service and there’s usually a pharmacy very close by, wherever people are.
 
General Practice
GP practice offers a range of healthcare professionals including doctors and nurses who are available for all health concerns and can refer to other medical services when required.  Extended hours appointments are available in many cases, allowing people to see a GP beyond 5pm and at weekends.

NHS111
If people are not sure where to go for their health needs, contact NHS 111.

Minor Injuries Unit
The MIU team are based at the Acorn Centre, 421 Blackburn Rd, Accrington BB5 1RT they can treat: sprains and strains, broken bones, wound infections, minor burns and scalds, minor head injuries, insect and animal bites, minor eye injuries and injuries to the back, shoulder and chest. Their unit is open seven days a week from 8am until 8.30pm.
 
Burnley Urgent Treatment Centre
The UTC at Burnley General Hospital can treat suspected broken bones or breathing difficulties which need immediate care but are not life-threatening and are available 24 hours a day.
 
Urgent community response
If residents are already known to our Intermediate Care Allocation Team (ICAT) then they are able to contact the service directly themselves, if they feel they need a same day response from the urgent community services or Intensive Home Support Service (IHSS).  The community services single point of access is via East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust’s Intermediate Care Allocation Team (ICAT) on 01282 805989.  Response times are based on clinical need, can be within 2 hours from point of referral to ICAT and are available 24 hours/day over any 7 day period.  
 
Falls prevention
The Steady On (falls prevention) service is also accessible via the ICAT number, it offers home assessments to identify practical measures that support daily living with a focus on prevention, safety and independence.  In addition, the team connects clients with other services such as Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the Community Rehab Team, and Age UK to ensure comprehensive support.  The service is open to residents to self-refer, as well as professionals who can refer on their behalf (with consent).

Facts About Your Health & NHS Services

Facts About Health & NHS Services For Parents