Urgent Crae center

Find Urgent Care Centres Near You – NHS or Private

Are you stuck at home or away from work, feeling unwell and unable to get a same-day GP appointment? Do you dread waiting in long A&E queues? Don't worry, you're not alone. In the UK, there's a solution to alleviate your stress - Urgent Care Centres (UCCs).

What Is an Urgent Care Centre?

An Urgent Care Centre (often referred to as a Walk-in Centre or Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC)) is a dedicated clinic for treating non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses. These centres serve as a safety net for NHS services, relieving pressure on GPs and A&E departments. You can find UCCs in many locations across the UK, equipped to handle the following common conditions:

• Minor sprains and cuts
• Fever, infections, and sore throats
• Minor head injuries
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Rashes and skin issues

Understanding the Difference between Urgent Care and A&E

Is urgent care the same as A&E? Absolutely not. Let's compare:

Type of Issue Treatment	Urgent Care Centre	Accident & Emergency
Type of Issue	Minor injuries and common conditions	Serious, life-threatening conditions
Booking Needed	No booking needed, or use NHS 111	No booking; visit directly if urgent
Staff	GPs, nurses, and therapists	Specialized doctors and surgeons
Wait Times	Usually shorter wait times	Longer wait times; can vary
Cost	Free (NHS) or moderate cost (private)	Free (NHS)

Choosing between NHS and Private Urgent Care Options

With the NHS providing free urgent care services, you may be wondering whether to opt for private options. Consider this: if you have a minor issue that isn't life-threatening, yet can't wait for NHS services, consider the following benefits of private urgent care clinics:

• Same-day appointments available
• Extended hours (some even 24/7)
• On-site diagnostics (blood tests, X-rays, etc.)
• Shorter wait times (often less than 30 minutes)

However, costs may vary depending on the city and services offered. You can expect to pay:

• General consultation: £50-£100
• Blood tests/X-rays: Additional fees
• Prescriptions: May be included in the cost

How to Find Your Local Urgent Care Centre

Lucky for you, Urgent Treatment Centres are scattered across the UK. Use our:

Map: Find your local centre

or

NHS 111:

1. Search online 2. Call 111 on your phone to book an appointment Before visiting an urgent care centre, have these essential items ready:

• Bring your ID and NHS number
• Write down your symptoms and when they started
• Have a list of your medications

By getting prepared and choosing the right treatment option for you, you'll receive faster and more effective medical care, closer to home.