Urgent treatment centres (UTCs) provide urgent medical help when it's not a life-threatening emergency. They can diagnose and deal with many common problems people go to A&E for.
When urgent treatment centres can help
They can help with common problems, such as:
- sprains and strains
- suspected broken bones
- injuries, cuts and bruises
- stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoea
- skin infections and rashes
- high temperature in children and adults
- mental health concerns
- emergency contraception
If you need one, you can often get tests like an ECG (electrocardiogram), blood tests or an X-ray.
If you need a prescription following your assessment, this can be arranged for you.
You do not need to be registered with a GP or have a fixed address.
If you think you need urgent medical help
NHS 111 online can help if you think you need urgent medical help.
You will be offered services based on the help you need, which may include a UTC.
You may be able to book an appointment or an arrival time through NHS 111 online. This lets the service know you're coming.
What to take with you
It's helpful if you bring your prescription, or any medicines you take, with you.
You do not need to know your NHS number.
What happens when you get there
Patients who are the most unwell or those with an appointment may be seen before you. This may mean waiting if the service is busy.
A nurse will take some observations, for example your pulse and blood pressure.
Some UTCs have separate waiting rooms for adults and children, or those who need mental health support.
Let a member of staff know if you start to feel worse while you're waiting.
If you used NHS 111 online
If the UTC is expecting you because you used NHS 111 online, they will already have your details.
If the UTC is not expecting you, they'll ask about the reason for your visit and for some personal details.
Some UTCs have a self-assessment tool that you use when you get there. If they know you're coming, you should not need to use it.
If you need help in another language
You can ask for an interpreter at reception if you need help in another language, including British Sign Language (BSL).
What happens next
You will usually be assessed and treated on site. You might be referred on to other services if necessary.
If you have one, your GP will be contacted afterwards with an update on why you used the service and any treatment you received while you were there.