NHS: Where to go if you need treatment for minor injuries

LOCAL NHS minor injuries units are located at the Princess of Wales Hospital, Ely, and the North Cambs Hospital at Wisbech.

These units provide fast and convenient access to NHS treatment. You can see an experienced nurse for advice, assessment and treatment for minor ailments and injuries such as sports injuries, sprains and strains, joint pain, minor head injuries, cuts, bruises, simple limb fractures, insects/animal bites and minor infections.

The minor injuries services are nurse led and can assess all patients who attend, but may refer some patients on for specialist advice where required.

Routine opening hours are:

Princess of Wales Hospital, Monday-Friday 8.30am-6pm, Saturday/Sunday 9am-6pm; North Cambs Hospital, Monday-Friday 8am-5.45pm, Saturday 9am-5pm.

Please see the separate section on opening times for the Easter period, and remember you don't need an appointment to attend the minor injuries units.

For services in other areas call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 to see if there is a NHS walk-in centre available.

If you need to visit your local GP you will find its provides a range of services, including general medical advice and treatment; prescriptions; referral to a specialist or hospital (where appropriate); jabs and tests (such as immunisations, blood tests or cervical smears). Remember to tell your doctor if you have tried or are still taking other medicines.

If you or someone else experiences severe breathing difficulties, loss of blood or suspected broken bones, go to a hospital A&E department or call 999 for an emergency ambulance. A&E departments are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and can assess serious injuries and provide emergency treatment.

With the NHS nowadays, there are lots of choices. By making the right choice at the right time, you get the best possible treatment. Next time you or a family member are feeling unwell, and you are not sure what to do, use this