A REVIEW of how to increase people's awareness of minor injury units (MIUs) is set to be undertaken by Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust.

Two MIUs operated by the trust at Abingdon and Witney Community Hospitals were the subject of a new report, published yesterday by Healthwatch Oxfordshire.

It found that more than a third of people interviewed had tried to access their GP before being sent to an MIU. None said the NHS 'Choose Well' campaign - which tells people to go in the first instance - had been a factor in making their decision.

A total of 23 out of 62 had been advised to come to an MIU by their GP, while a further six had been referred by other services.

Healthwatch Oxfordshire executive director Carol Moore said: "Minor Injuries Units appear to be providing an excellent service in the county, and are playing an important role in easing pressure on other areas of the health service such as GP surgeries and Accident & Emergency Departments.

“However, there is obviously some work still to be done on raising people’s awareness of the MIUs and the services they offer."

Concerns were raised in the study by some patients who did not know if a triage system, which assess the level of care needed, was running, how long they would be there or even if they would be seen.

One participant said: "Some people have been walking straight in, not sure if they do triage. At the JR they visibly triage you.

"What triage there is here doesn't exist. I arrived at 4.30pm and have been told x-ray closes at 6.30pm."

Some also reported difficulty finding a space even with a blue badge, and having to park at the multi-storey car park in Witney or at the Tesco nearby.

Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust chief executive Stuart Bell said: "We are committed to supporting patients to understand and be able to access the service provided by the MIUs. We already use social media to promote the service available and to respond to feedback about the service.

"The MIUs are featured in the 'Choose Well' education campaign in Oxfordshire. Over the next few months the service will review how to increase further awareness of MIUs, for example looking at expanding the posters and information leaflets available at sports centres and other similar public places."