Alternatives to A&E

In a serious medical emergency you should always call 999 or come to an A&E department. If you have a condition that has been present for two or three days, or is only a minor problem, then it may be more appropriate to use an alternative service. This could include your GP or one of the following options:

NHS Direct
You can get advice about a health problem 24 hours a day from NHS Direct. Call 0845 46 47 (calls cost a maximum of 5p per minute from a BT landline; calls from mobiles or other networks will vary) or go to www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.

NHS walk-in centres
You can get fast and convenient access to healthcare advice and treatment for minor injuries and illnesses at an NHS walk-in centre. Search for your nearest centre using the Find services section of the main NHS website, www.nhs.uk.

Minor injuries units
Minor injuries units are able to deal with slightly more serious injuries than walk-in centres. Examples include cuts, grazes, bites and stings, infected wounds, minor head injuries and minor eye infections.
• Minor treatment centre at South Westminster Centre, 82 Vincent Square, London, SW1P 2PF
Telephone: 020 8746 5716
• Minor injuries unit at St Charles Hospital, Exmoor Street, London, W10 6DZ
Telephone: 020 8962 4262
• Soho Centre for Health and Care, 1 Frith Street, London, W1D 3HZ
Telephone: 020 7534 6500
• Urgent care centre at Charing Cross Hospital, St Dunstan's Road, London, W6 8RF
Telephone: 020 3311 1501