Urgent treatment centres patient information

Urgent treatment centres treat a variety of conditions that are too urgent to wait for a GP appointment (usually 48 hours) but do not need emergency treatment at an A&E.

Before your visit to the urgent treatment centre (UTC)

Please attend your appointment unaccompanied to keep everyone safe. Carers are welcome to come to hospital to support patients' health and social needs. 

We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing if possible. 

Please note that our hospitals are teaching hospitals, so medical students may be present for some consultations. If you do not wish to have them in the room please let the nurse or doctor know and the students will be asked to step outside. 

If you are coming to the urgent treatment centre from home, it is a good idea for you or your relative to bring details of any medication you are taking (it is often easiest to bring the medicine packets themselves). Please also bring any details of previous or upcoming hospital appointments as this will help our staff to understand your medical history.

Please bring details of your GP.  Liaison with your GP is crucial for ensuring you receive appropriate ongoing care.

During your visit to the urgent treatment centre

Upon arrival you will need to check in at the main reception. You will then be required to discuss your reasons for attendance and complete any appropriate forms. You will usually be seen in the urgent treatment centre quicker than A&E.

How long you will wait to be seen will depend on:

• the seriousness of your condition
• how many patients with more serious or urgent needs arrive in the unit while you are waiting

If your condition worsens, the doctors and nurses at the urgent treatment centre will act quickly and decide on the best place for you to receive your care. The urgent treatment centre may also refer you back to your GP for an appointment if that is best for you.