HOSPITAL patients can now receive better urgent care and treatment at a new minor injuries unit (MIU).

It took nine weeks to install the new unit at Bridport Community Hospital, which is located on the ground floor next to the main reception and x-ray department.

There are now three large assessment areas on the unit, as opposed to the two bedded room, it had originally been. There is also a private suite for confidential and sensitive discussions and examinations.

Bridport Community Hospital matron Jane Turner, hopes the new MIU will stop some patients having to travel in order to visit accident and emergency departments at other hospitals.

She said: “We are really pleased to be in a larger space and delighted we can now offer a more streamlined service.

“Access to our MIU is a lot easier for our patients. The facility is also situated next to x-ray, which makes patient flow a lot better.”

The MIU provides expert treatment for fractures, minor ailments, sprains, bites and burns – and can save people a trip to a busy accident and emergency department.

Nurse practitioner Patrick Letherby, hopes the new MIU will help the hospital cope with a growing number of patients requiring services.

He said: “We have seen a steady increase over the past four years in the number of patients we see.

"Last year we treated more than 8,600, so it was vital we moved to a bigger area to cope with the demand.

“Our new facility enables us to work closer together as a team in much more modern and comfortable surroundings. More space also means patients have more privacy when receiving treatment.”

The new MIU is open seven days a week, from 9am until 6pm, including bank holidays.