A NEW initiative has been launched to ensure patients attending a North-East accident and emergency unit will be met by a senior nurse to help identify those most in need of urgent care.

James Cook University Hospital is launching its ‘navigational’ model at the weekend in an attempt ease the burden on A&E medics.

The Northern Echo: Ambulances outside The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough. (6011246)

INITIATIVE: New 'navigation' scheme launched ease burden on James Cook University Hospital's A&E department

The new model aims to change the way people access emergency care so the hospital’s Emergency Department can focus on those patients with life threatening illnesses or injuries.

On a regular day between 250 and 350 people arrive at the Middlesbrough hospital for treatment, although some do not require emergency care and could have received their treatment elsewhere, such as their local pharmacy, GP or urgent appointments via extended hour GP centres.

Keir Rumins, emergency department matron, said: “Patients often come to the Emergency Department because they don’t know the best place to go for treatment, or they may feel their symptoms can only be treated at hospital.

“However if they went to the right place in the community, it would be much more convenient – and quicker – for them. This model allows us to redirect people so they are cared for in the right place and, in turn, gives us more time to focus on the patients who really need emergency care.”

A&E department manager, Sue Murphy, who has worked closely with the nursing team to train staff and develop the model, explained that several pilots had taken place in collaboration with South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group and GP practices.

According to the trust’s advice, local pharmacies can give advice for more minor ailments, while GPs and walk in centres can also treat people more quickly than going to an Emergency Department.