What is an urgent treatment centre (UTC) and what is the difference to a minor injury unit, walk in centre, or accident and emergency department etc.?

An urgent treatment centre is like a minor injury unit or walk in centre, however we are not an accident and emergency department. An urgent treatment centre’s primary function is to see recent minor injury and minor illness.

Can I attend the urgent treatment centre as a ‘walk in’?

Yes, however please see our list of What we can and can’t treat prior to attending to ensure you attend the right place.

What time is the department open until?

We are open from 8am to 9pm seven days a week.

Is my injury or illness appropriate to attend the UTC?

Please see our list of things we can see. We are also grateful if you do not call the department directly as we are unable to provide advise over the phone. Please contact the 111 service if you are unsure.

Which clinician will I see?

This is dependent on your injury or illness. Often the triaging clinician will decide which practitioner is most appropriate for you to see.

How long will my visit take?

We aim to triage you as quickly as possible. However, your visit depends on your condition and needs. Patients are seen according to the most serious first so please be patient with us as we can often experience very busy periods.

Can I have an x-ray at Lymington Urgent hospital?

Yes. However, we are unable to provide chest or facial x-rays, or limbs of children under 2 years of age. If your injury is older than 2 weeks you should contact your GP instead of attending the UTC.

I have already seen my GP, but can I be assessed by the UTC clinician for a second opinion?

If you are already under the care of your own GP, we cannot become involved or alter any of your current referrals or treatment. Our function as an urgent care centre is to deal with any sudden deterioration in your condition to ensure you are safe to return to your GP as soon as possible.

If I am prescribed a medication from the UTC is there a pharmacy within the hospital?

No, unfortunately there is no pharmacy within the hospital. However, we can advise you on local pharmacies and opening times if required.

Can I obtain a repeat prescription from the UTC?

No unfortunately we cannot provide repeat prescriptions and you must contact your local GP practice for this.

111 have sent me as an appointment to see a clinician. What do I do when I arrive?

Please attend the reception as per normal. To ensure your assessment goes more smoothly please make sure we have your correct mobile number and we will call you at your appointment time. Please be aware if very busy periods there may be a delay with this, but we will aim to see you as soon as possible.

111 have sent me to the UTC but I have decided I do not need to visit anymore?

Please give us a courtesy call to let us know.

What is Appointments+?

On evenings and weekends, we offer an additional GP who is available to see certain patients. This, however, is only open for GP’s surgeries and 111 to make these appointments.

I am unhappy with my experience in the UTC. How do I make a complaint?

We welcome any feedback from patients to improve on our care and service. Click here to send us feedback.