Local service for local patients
A new service run by HUC has started at St Albans City Hospital, working alongside other NHS services to increase patients’ access to same-day care for health concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening.
From now, when Hertfordshire patients contact NHS 111 with an urgent health issue, they may be offered an appointment on the same day at the new Integrated Urgent Care Hub (IUCH). From next Wednesday (9 November), GP practices will also be able to book patients into the service. This new minor illness and injuries service offers appointments between 9am and 6pm, seven days a week and provides access to diagnostic services, including x-rays.
A nurse-led service
Patients will be treated by nurses who have experience working in urgent care and emergency triage departments. The service is also supported by GPs who the nurses can call on for further medical support or treatment if needed. The team is able to see, treat and resolve issues for patients over the age of 1 year, with a range of non-life-threatening health conditions. Babies and children under 1 year will be directed to other relevant services.
The service is being delivered from newly refurbished space in St Albans City Hospital, which previously housed the Minor Injuries Unit. Much like GP services, patients need an appointment to be able to use the service. It does not offer a ‘walk-in’ service for patients.
David Archer, HUC CEO, says
“We’re delighted to have welcomed our first patients into the St Albans Integrated Urgent Care Hub. HUC is proud of being a community-focused organisation and I know our new team of nurses, patient care coordinators, and support workers share our passion for providing high-quality care. The whole team is really enthusiastic about delivering a service that will increase access to same-day urgent care for patients.”
