Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC)

We have booked an appointment for you

More information about your Urgent Treatment Centre appointment

• This leaflet explains why you are being redirected from the Emergency Department (ED) to our Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) today.
• It includes information about what care and advice is being offered instead.

Why have I been given this information?

• You have been triaged by a senior ED nurse and have been assessed as not requiring immediate treatment.
• You have been safely assessed using clear clinical criteria and have been offered the option of returning to be seen at a booked appointment.
• This helps us to prioritise patients with life-threatening emergencies while still ensuring that you receive timely and appropriate care.

What is an Emergency Department redirection?

Emergency Department redirection means that you will be offered care at a more suitable service. This may include:

• A same day appointment with a GP or Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) in UTC.
• A next day appointment with a GP or ENP in UTC.

Why am I being offered an appointment instead of being treated now?

By safely redirecting patients whose condition is not an emergency, we can:

• Reduce long waiting times.
• Allow you to rest at home.
• Improve safety for all patients in the Emergency Department (ED).
• Offer you a shorter waiting time than if you stayed in the ED today.

Where will my appointment take place?

Your appointment will be here, at the Whittington Hospital’s Urgent Treatment Centre.

What should I do while I wait for my appointment?

• While you wait, you may manage your symptoms with the following self-care tips:
  • Take simple pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed.
  • Rest any injuries to avoid strain.
  • Drink plenty of fluids and eat as normally as you can.
  • Get adequate sleep and rest.
  • Use warm drinks or cough medicine if you have a cough or cold.
• If you have a long-term condition, we encourage you to arrange a review with your GP practice.
• If your symptoms improve and you no longer need the appointment, please let us know.

When should I seek urgent or emergency help?

• If your condition gets worse or you develop any of the following symptoms, return to the Emergency Department or call 999 immediately:
  • Chest pain.
  • Collapse or fainting.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Confusion.
  • Severe or uncontrollable pain.
  • New or heavy bleeding.
  • Severe headache.
  • Loss of vision.
  • Numbness or weakness in your limbs.
• For non-urgent worsening symptoms: call NHS 111.
• IN EMERGENCY: Call 999 and ask for AMBULANCE.

Can I still access my GP or a pharmacy for advice or treatment?

• Yes. Many common illnesses or symptoms can be assessed by your GP or a Pharmacy First service. Pharmacists can offer advice and treatment without the need for an appointment.

Where can I find further help or contact details if I need to reschedule?

• If you are unable to attend your appointment or need to reschedule, please contact us as soon as possible.

  • Whittington Hospital, Emergency Department, Magdala Avenue, London, N19 5NF.

  • 020 7288 5216 (24hrs) - No medical advice is given on this number.

  • NHS 111

  • NHS Website - https://www.nhs.uk/

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