Cllr Ed O’Driscoll Calls for the Return of Minor Injuries Units in Herefordshire
Cllr Ed O’Driscoll has submitted a motion on behalf of the Liberal Democrats Group, urging the reinstatement of Minor Injuries Units (MIUs) across Herefordshire. This motion will be formally proposed at the Full Council meeting on 7th March, with the aim of addressing the growing pressure on emergency healthcare services in the county.
Why is this necessary?
Hereford County Hospital is currently facing an overwhelming crisis. Between November 2024 and February 2025, statistics show that one in four ambulances had to wait over an hour just to transfer patients to the A&E department. Such delays not only put patients at risk but also prevent ambulances from responding to other emergency calls in a timely manner. This situation is not sustainable and requires urgent intervention.
The Role of Minor Injuries Units (MIUs)
In the past, MIUs played a crucial role in providing fast, local treatment for minor injuries, significantly reducing the burden on A&E departments. These units enabled patients with less severe injuries—such as sprains, minor burns, and fractures—to receive prompt care without adding to the congestion in emergency departments.
Neighbouring counties, including Gloucestershire, Powys, Shropshire, and Worcestershire, continue to operate MIUs successfully. However, Herefordshire has been left without them, forcing residents to rely solely on overstretched hospital services.
When MIUs were originally closed, the public response was overwhelmingly in favour of their return. In Ross-on-Wye alone, more than 1,500 people signed a petition demanding that these essential services be reinstated. The level of support from local communities demonstrates a clear and urgent need for action.
What is Being Asked?
Cllr O’Driscoll is calling for:
Council support for the reopening of MIUs to help alleviate pressure on A&E departments and GP services.
Collaboration between the Council’s executive and NHS partners to develop a plan for reinstating these units and ensuring their long-term sustainability.
Reintroducing MIUs would provide an immediate and practical solution to ease the current strain on healthcare services while improving patient care across the county. Cllr O’Driscoll and the Liberal Democrats Group are committed to ensuring that residents of Herefordshire have access to the healthcare services they need and deserve.
