Minor injuries unit reduces opening hours due to staff shortages

The unit will also open hour an hour later each day, meaning the service will be available from 8am to 9pm each day, rather than the previous 7.30am to 11pm.

Swansea Bay University Health Board say these new opening hours will be trialled for a period of 9 months.

It adds that it has staff that are available around the Minor Injuries Unit who can redirect anyone turning up between 9pm and 11pm.

The health board added that anyone needing urgent attention that cannot wait until the following day should use 111 or, if it is serious enough, the Emergency Department at Morriston Hospital.

A spokesperson for Swansea Bay University Health Board said: “The Minor Injury Unit is an important part of Swansea Bay’s urgent and emergency care services. We have no intention of making this a permanent change and we are recruiting additional staff.

“We are working closely with Llais, the independent organisation which represents the views of health and social care service users and patients across Wales.

“Previously, we have had to close the MIU early at short notice on several occasions. This caused difficulties for patients who turned up expecting to be seen only to have to go to Morriston Hospital instead.

“On average, five patients a day attended the MIU between 9pm and 11pm. Closing temporarily at 9pm allows us to provide a sustainable service, with the least impact on patients.

“We hope you will understand the reasons for the change. Be assured we are doing all we can to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

“Please note the MIU is for minor injuries only and cannot treat serious illnesses or serious injuries. It cannot deal with patients with an illness, suspected heart attack, chest pains or stroke.”

(Lead image: Swansea Bay NHS)