Six-month thumbs up for Newcastle Central NHS Walk-in Centre

Company news

Nov 01, 2006

Run by Care UK under contract to the NHS, the Newcastle Central NHS Walk-in Centre is part of the Government's Commuter Walk-in Centre programme designed to bring primary care to people where and when it is most convenient to them. It provides the same range of high quality services patients traditionally receive from their GP but without the need to make an appointment.

Care is provided by a team of experienced nurses, an emergency care practitioner and two GPs, and since opening in May the Centre has treated patients for a wide range of conditions, including: cuts and grazes; minor illnesses; strains and sprains; asthma; travel vaccinations; and other common illnesses.

The Newcastle Central NHS Walk-in Centre is proving a hit with the people of Newcastle. Andrew Gorthwaite from North Shields visited the Centre when he developed a sore throat. He was very happy with the advice and treatment he was given.

He said: "My doctor's surgery is always so busy, which makes it difficult to get an appointment. It's so convenient to be able to just turn up at the Newcastle Central NHS Walk-in Centre. The staff have been really helpful and I have been seen quickly."

Mr. Gorthwaite received treatment for tonsillitis and was prescribed a course of penicillin and painkillers - he has now made a full recovery.

Trevor Wilson injured his back bending to pick up his shoes. He came to the Centre and was delighted with what he found there. He said: "I think it's great. Everywhere is so new and clean and the staff have been really helpful. It's nice to have somewhere so close by where you can turn up without an appointment."

Mr. Wilson received treatment for muscular skeletal syndrome and was prescribed an anti-inflammatory painkiller. He, too, has made a full recovery.

The Newcastle Central NHS Walk-in Centre is open every day of the week. More information on opening hours and the services provided is available by calling 0191 233 3760 or by visiting the Centre's website.

Visit the Newcastle Central NHS Walk-in Centre website