Urgent Care Centre Under Threat

The Urgent Care Centre at Hertford County Hospital could be closed following recommendations by NHS Hertfordshire.

An evaluation panel has decided that the centre has not fulfilled it's brief, despite being visited by up to 700 people a week.

The centre opened in 2009 to treat injuries or conditions that are severe but not immediately critical or life threatening. This includes injuries and treatment for wounds, sprains and minor fractures.

Initially the centre was little used, but following publicity attendance jumped.

The evaluation panel however have concluded that the centre is being misused. People are attending the centre when they only require a visit to the GP. Others should have been using A&E departments at larger hospitals such as the QEII at Welwyn Garden City or The Lister at Stevenage.

A formal report is due to be presented to NHS Hertfordshire on 23rd March.