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Thurso Community Council says way Dunbar minor injuries unit operates is 'crazy'





The way the newly re-opened minor injuries unit at the Dunbar Hospital in Thurso operates has been described as "crazy" and "stupid".

The criticism was made at a meeting of the town's community council when members heard the facility, which was closed for more than two years after temporarily shutting due to the pandemic and staffing problems, is only open between 8am and 5pm.

Community councillors are pleased the unit is operational again but are unhappy with the restricted hours and what was described as "an appointment system". It was explained that a patient can't just attend the facility but has to contact NHS 24 first for assessment.

Colin Johnston was unimpressed and said "a dog gets a better service from a vet than we get" and described the new set-up as "stupid".

Treasurer, Elspeth Husband, said: "You don't have an accident by appointment."

Ron Gunn, who chairs the Caithness Health Action Team, said the system is "crazy" in a rural area, although he stressed NHS Highland would "not turn anyone away".

"They seem to be trying to manage the situation but it is a major change to the way they operate and they have to let people know that," he said.

Ron Gunn outside the Dunbar hospital in Thurso. Photo: Robert MacDonald/Northern Studios
Ron Gunn outside the Dunbar hospital in Thurso. Photo: Robert MacDonald/Northern Studios

Mr Gunn also pointed out that the signs for the minor injuries unit are still covered although he was told that is to deter visitors. "They don't want people just turning up, they want them to be referred," he added.

NHS Highland has said the Covid pandemic, combined with staffing challenges, resulted in the closure being longer than planned.

The re-opening of the unit is being phased as staff continue to be recruited, said NHS Highland, which pointed out that the provision of a minor injuries unit is part of the Caithness redesign plans.

A spokesman for the health authority said: "Local Accident and Emergency (A&E) departments across Highland remain open for those who have a life-threatening emergency.

"However, to ensure patients have the fastest access to the treatment they need, anyone with a non-life threatening condition who would usually go to A&E should call NHS 24 on 111 first, day or night, to be directed to the right NHS service.

"The NHS is always there for you, however Accident and Emergency (A&E) is not always the right place for the care we need."

He added: "People should always contact 999 or go to the nearest A&E department in an emergency. By doing so, we will continue to help our doctors and nurses through this pandemic and ensure A&E provides the fastest and most appropriate care for people when they really need it."


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