| Unscheduled Care Action Group |
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Sheffield LINk received a number of issues about the provision of this type of care especially delays in A&E or getting emergency appointments with GPs. As a response to these concerns, Mike Smith, Chair of Sheffield LINk, has set up and is leading an Action Group focusing on the current provision of unscheduled care in Sheffield. The Action Group plans to identify all the components of the local unscheduled care system, what each one provides and those it is designed to help. There is some evidence that the public needs help understanding which service is most appropriate in which circumstances. Therefore, they will also look at communication around this area to help steer people toward the best option when they need help. Plans are already advanced for a series of ‘enter and view’ visits to relevant providers including the Accident and Emergency Unit at the Northern General Hospital, the Minor Injuries Unit at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital and the Walk-in GP Centre in Broad Lane. The Group aims to complete its investigations and report its findings by the end of June 2011. Please tell us your experiences with ‘unscheduled care’ in Sheffield on our ‘have your say’ page. All your comments and experiences will be looked at by members of the Action Group. Further information on unscheduled care in Sheffield can be found in the NHS Sheffield Strategy for sustainable unscheduled care. |
Unscheduled care is the term used for any ‘unplanned’ contact with the NHS by a person wanting help, care or advice. In addition to Accident & Emergency services, this includes walk-in services, out-of-hours GPs and emergency dental appointments.