Alternatives for non-emergency cases
To make the most of NHS services, choose the option that is right for your needs.
NHS 111
You should use the NHS 111 service if you urgently need medical help or advice but it's not a life-threatening situation.
Call 111 if:
- you need medical help fast but it's not a 999 emergency
- you think you need to go to A&E or need another NHS urgent care service
- you don't know who to call or you don't have a GP to call
- you need health information or reassurance about what to do next
For less urgent health needs, contact your GP or local pharmacist in the usual way.
If a health professional has given you a specific phone number to call when you are concerned about your condition, continue to use that number.
For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, continue to call 999.
Information about NHS 111 - NHS website
NHS website
The NHS website has a range of health-related information about local health services, such as your nearest GP, dentist or pharmacy.
Pharmacists (chemists)
Pharmacists can choose the right medicine for you and give advice on health problems. They can help you decide if you need to see a doctor.
Visit your GP
Your GP offers medical advice and treatment, prescriptions and referral to a specialist or hospital where necessary.
Out of Hours
Out of Hours Services in Oxfordshire
Minor Injuries / First Aid Units
Minor Injuries Units (MIUs) are nurse-led services which treat minor injuries such as strains, sprains and broken bones. Specialist advice is available from local emergency departments and specialist teams when needed.
There is no need to make an appointment at an MIU.
What are minor injuries?
- Minor bumps to the head
- Sprains, broken bones, fractures and dislocated fingers
- Minor burns, cuts and bruises
- Nose bleeds
- Bites and stings
- Simple ear, nose and eye complaints such as removal of splinters
After initial treatment some people may be referred to specialist services or to a GP.
Minor Injuries Units with X-ray facilities
Abingdon Community Hospital
Marcham Road, Abingdon OX14 1AG
Tel: 01865 903476
Seven days a week 10.00am to 10.30pm
Townlands Hospital
York Road, Henley-on-Thames RG9 2EB
Tel: 01865 903755
Seven days a week 9.00am to 8.00pm
X-ray closed Bank Holidays and weekends
Witney Community Hospital
Welch Way, Witney OX28 6JJ
Tel: 01865 903841
Seven days a week 10.00am to 10.30pm
First Aid Units
Bicester Community Hospital
Piggy Lane (access via Coker Close), Bicester OX26 6HT
Tel: 01865 903976
Monday to Friday 6.00pm to 11.00pm and 8.30am to 11.00pm at weekends and Bank Holidays
Walk-in service; no referral or appointment required
Chipping Norton War Memorial Community Hospital
Russell Way, off London Road, Chipping Norton OX7 5FA
Tel: 01865 903333 (main reception, 8.30am to 5.00pm)
Operated by South Central Ambulance Service
Open weekday evenings 5.00pm to 9.00pm and 10.00am to 9.00pm weekends and Bank Holidays
Drop-in service; no appointment required
Last reviewed:18 December 2023