A growing network of NHS treatment rooms is helping patients access care closer to home.
NHS Lanarkshire’s expanded network of 22 treatment rooms now offers a wider range of clinical services in dedicated community settings across the region.
The scheme aims to reduce winter pressures by allowing patients to access care without visiting a GP.
The standardised treatment rooms now deliver community treatment and care (CTAC) services that were previously carried out in GP practices.
Most procedures can be booked directly without the need for a GP referral.
Dr Veronica Rainey, associate medical director at South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, said: "More than 20 procedures are now available at treatment rooms, including wound care, injections and leg ulcer assessment and management.
"By going directly to a treatment room, patients can often be seen quickly and locally – helping reduce pressure on GP practices during the busy winter period.
"For most procedures, patients can refer themselves directly to their local treatment room without needing a GP appointment. However, chronic disease monitoring and blood tests still require a GP referral.
"These services will help us meet the increasing patient demand and improve patient access to wider primary care services."
Among the services offered is the growing Bloods and go scheme, a drop-in clinic for patients who need blood tests requested by their GP.
Originally launched in East Kilbride, the service is now available in Coatbridge, Hamilton, Lanark, Motherwell and Wishaw.
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Debi Robertson, deputy associate nurse director at South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, said: "The services available in treatment rooms mean patients can get the care they need quickly and in their own community.
"The expanding Bloods and go service makes it easier for people to have blood taken, at a time that suits them.
"It’s all about making access to services easier, more accessible and closer to home."
The treatment rooms reflect NHS Lanarkshire’s commitment to reducing demand on GP surgeries during peak periods, particularly winter.
For more information on available services, locations and opening times, visit the NHS Lanarkshire website.
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