PEOPLE are being urged not to go to A&E unless it is strictly necessary.

Health chiefs in Gloucestershire want patients to make better use of minor injury units (MIUs) for the treatment of injuries such as sprains, simple fractures and minor wounds and burns.

North Cotswolds Hospital, in Moreton, has an MIU that could save many patients a lengthy trip to A&E in Cheltenham or Gloucester. Waiting times at MIUs are also generally considerably shorter than at A&E.

Susan Field, director of adult services at Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust, said: “Minor injuries units give local people the option of urgent healthcare close to home.

"Going to a local MIU instead of an emergency department for minor injuries and illnesses allows staff at the larger hospitals to focus on patients with more serious and life threatening conditions.”

Linda Edwards, Matron at North Cotswolds Hospital, added: "Our MIU team treats both adults and children with a variety of injuries and we want to spread the message that urgent care is available locally for minor injuries and illnesses."

For more information about what treatment is available and where, visit choosewellglos.nhs.uk.