Accident and Emergency (A&E)

Our Accident and Emergency departments are for major, life-threatening illnesses and injuries.

Our A&E departments are located at Worcestershire Royal Hospital in Worcester and the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch.

We assess and treat patients with serious injuries or illnesses. Generally, you should visit A&E or call 999 for life-threatening emergencies, such as:

• Loss of consciousness
• Acute confused state and fits that are not stopping
• Persistent, severe chest pain
• Breathing difficulties
• Severe bleeding that cannot be stopped

The doctors and nurses at A&E are highly trained in emergency medicine and have access to equipment and treatments for life-threatening conditions.

At A&E a doctor or nurse will assess your condition and decide what further action is needed. This is so that people with more serious conditions are seen first – if you attend A&E with minor complaints you may have to wait a long time for treatment.

For illnesses or injuries that are not life threatening you have several options that are likely to be much quicker and more convenient. These include:

• A minor injuries unit (MIU) – there are several across the county
• NHS 111
• Your GP surgery
• Your local pharmacy

As many as one in four people who go to A&E could care for themselves or use alternative treatment. Explore alternatives to A&E.

Are you Deaf and need an interpreter?

If you need to attend our A&E department in an emergency, and you require an interpreter, you can send an SMS text message to 07887 622 746 to get support from an interpreter.