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Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC)

There are Urgent Treatment Centres (UTC) at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals. They are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and treat patients with minor injuries and illnesses such as infections, sprains or bites –  less serious injuries that are not critical or life-threatening but still require urgent attention.

Location

The Urgent Treatment Centre is located within the Emergency Department at both Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells hospitals.

Services

The UTC treats minor illness and injuries in both adults and children, such as:

  • Fever and infections
  • Vomiting
  • Sprains
  • Scalds and burns
  • Minor cuts, bites or stings
  • Fractures
  • Minor eye injuries
  • Head injuries with no loss of consciousness and not related to alcohol

The UTC works closely with the Emergency Department and when you come in you will be assessed using our streaming/triaging system. This will help us decide how to prioritise your treatment needs and who is the best person to see you. If someone is seen before you, their need is higher.

Immediate life-threatening emergencies will be seen as a priority, and less severe illness or injuries will be prioritised by the following pathways:

  • Nurse-led triage
  • GP Clinic
  • Minor Injury Clinic
  • Paediatric illness

Getting the right treatment when you need it

Knowing the right place to go can help you get the treatment you need faster. The website www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk provides information on the Urgent Treatment Centres that are available in the Kent and Medway area, and how to check their waiting times. You can also find details of the other services that are available to you depending on your needs, such as seeing a pharmacist or calling NHS 111.

NHS England guidance on when to visit an urgent treatment centre (walk-in centre or minor injury unit)