GROWING demand for urgent care has prompted the introduction of a new appointment system at Newton Abbot hospital’s Urgent Treatment Centre.

The new appointment priority service is being introduced from Monday, September 28, in response to growing demand for urgent care.

The aim is to give patients greater certainty about when they will be seen, while helping to reduce waiting times and manage busy periods more effectively.

Appointments can be booked by calling Newton Abbot Urgent Treatment Centre on 01626 324631.

Patients should note that appointments are available for the same day only.

The centre is open from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week, including bank holidays.

People who arrive at the centre without an appointment will generally be asked to follow the same booking procedure by calling for an appointment.

Emergency cases will be assessed and prioritised separately.

The service says patients who choose to walk in may have to wait longer to be seen, particularly when demand is high, unless they require emergency treatment.

Newton Abbot Urgent Treatment Centre treats a range of urgent but non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries.

These include sprains, strains, cuts, burns, bites and suspected fractures, as well as conditions such as tonsillitis, ear infections and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.

However, the centre does not provide ongoing care for long-term conditions, repeat prescriptions, dental treatment or routine wound care and dressing changes.

Patients needing these services should contact their GP practice, while people with dental problems should contact their dentist or NHS 111.

Pregnant patients who are more than 12 weeks pregnant, or who have given birth within the previous 28 days and have an urgent concern, should contact the 24-hour maternity triage line on 01803 656588.

Anyone with a life-threatening illness or injury should continue to call 999 or attend the nearest Emergency Department.