Think Which Service: Why Minor Injury Units (MIUs) are a Good Choice for Urgent Care

As part of the Think Which Service campaign, NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin is urging residents to make informed healthcare choices — helping to ease pressure on busy A&E departments while ensuring faster, more efficient care.

Last year, over 135,000 people visited A&E in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin. Almost half of these cases could have been treated elsewhere, such as at a Minor Injury Unit (MIU) or a pharmacy. Many residents are unaware that MIUs offer expert care for a wide range of non-life-threatening conditions, often with much shorter wait times than A&E.

To highlight the benefits of MIUs, NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin has launched an informative video filmed at Oswestry MIU. This behind-the-scenes look demonstrates the expertise of MIU staff and showcases the types of injuries and conditions they treat, including sprains, minor burns, cuts, and fractures. By choosing an MIU when appropriate, residents can receive high-quality treatment faster while keeping A&E free for those with life-threatening emergencies.

The Think Which Service campaign empowers people to navigate their healthcare options wisely. By opting for MIUs when suitable, residents not only get the right care quicker but also contribute to a more efficient NHS for everyone.

 

Watch A Day in the Life of an MIU

Page last updated 27 February 2025

An illustration depicting Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin with key monuments