PLANS have been revealed for a new consultant-led minor injury unit at the Ulster Hospital in Dundonald.
Proposals for the new unit by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust were approved by Department of Health permanent secretary Peter May.
The proposals, which were the subject of a 12-week public consultation earlier this year, will see the new unit replace minor injury units at Ards Community Hospital and Bangor Community Hospital.
Once completed, the new unit will operate seven days a week, from 8am to 6pm.
The next phase of the trust's plans to reshape its urgent and emergency care will see a full Urgent Care Centre open alongside the new Emergency Department at Ulster Hospital.
The permanent secretary said: “Among the considerations I have taken into account are the improvements which the change will bring. The merged Minor Injury Unit will be open seven days a week for longer hours and will be doctor-led which will expand the range of conditions that can be treated.
“The trust’s plans will also pave the way for the delivery of an Urgent Care Centre in due course after the necessary enabling works have taken place. This development is in line with departmental policy.”
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