How to know when to visit our Whitby Urgent Treatment Centre

Almost two years ago, our Minor Injury Unit (MIU) at Whitby Community Hospital changed to an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC), to ensure local patients have improved access to urgent care, regardless of where you live.

This meant that we went from only seeing people with minor injuries, to also helping those experiencing minor illnesses. The UTC also introduced new x-ray facilities that are fit-for-purpose for years to come.

When considering options for care in your local area, we appreciate that it’s not always easy to know where to go. Our local team at Whitby UTC want to help you understand what they are here for, and some of the reasons you might find yourself in their care in the future.

Before attending the UTC, you are are encouraged to call NHS 111 or visit NHS 111 Online https://111.nhs.uk/ to understand whether our service meets your needs. The advisors at 111 can also book you an appointment to avoid long and unnecessary wait times.

If you are in an emergency, the standard procedure is to call 999 immediately. The UTC is not an Accident and Emergency department and should not be attended for serious, life-threatening injuries and illnesses.

Equally, if you are experiencing an illness that is not urgent, your best option would be to seek help from your GP practice or local pharmacy.

Everything you need to know about your local UTC

When should I visit the UTC?

You should only seek help from Whitby UTC when experiencing a minor illness or minor injury that requires urgent attention but is not life threatening. This includes:

• strains and sprains
• suspected broken limbs
• minor head injuries
• cuts and grazes
• bites and stings
• minor scalds and burns
• ear and throat infections
• skin infections and rashes
• eye problems
• coughs and colds
• feverish illness
• abdominal pain
• vomiting and diarrhoea

When is the UTC open?

Whitby UTC is open from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. This includes Bank Holidays.

X-ray facilities are available from 9am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday, and 9am to 12pm midday on Saturdays. X-ray facilities are not available on Sundays or Bank Holidays.

Please note, the UTC is unable to do chest, neck, back (spine), or hip x-rays. You will need to attend your local A&E for these services.

How long will I need to wait?

The service aims to see all patients within 4 hours of arrival.

Please avoid calling the UTC to enquire about wait times as these can vary considerably depending on the day, time, and demand of the service.

To make sure you’re going to the right place for your need, please call 111 before travelling to the UTC. The advisors can also pre-book you an appointment to reduce your wait time.

To find out more about Whitby UTC, including what you can be treated for and how to attend, please visit: https://www.humber.nhs.uk/Services/whitby-urgent-treatment-centre.htm