Samuel Johnson Community Hospital
Samuel Johnson Community Hospital

People who suffer injuries after a fall are being urged to use the facilities at the Samuel Johnson Community Hospital in Lichfield rather than going to an accident and emergency department.

With the threat of more severe weather in the coming days, South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust are putting plans in place to cope with the expected increase in hospital visits – especially from patients with suspected fractures.

Yvonne Sawbridge, Director of Quality and Nursing, South Staffordshire Primary Care Trust said:

“If local residents fall then they should go straight to one of our minor injury units located in Cannock, Lichfield and Tamworth where they will receive treatment and if necessary be referred to a consultant.  Staff there are highly experienced in dealing with a broad range of injuries.

“We are expecting a busy weekend and want patients to be treated as quickly as possible in the most appropriate place.  MIU should also be the first port of call for treatment and advice for minor illnesses, coughs, colds, ear infections, skin infections, burns, bites, sprains and strains.”

MIUs are based in Cannock Chase Hospital, Samuel Johnson Community Hospital, Lichfield and Sir Robert Peel Community Hospital, Tamworth.

Yvonne added:

“A&E departments are designed to deal with serious life threatening illnesses or accidents, therefore using alternatives such as MIUs keep hospitals free to deal with these cases.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.