A prospective study of urgent care utilisation in the NHS  A project funded by the British Medical Association (BMA) has recently started to describe patient reasons for attending the Emergency Department (ED). This study will undertake surveys in up to five EDs to understand patients’ reasons for attending and perceptions of the availability of other services. A series of brief interviews will also be undertaken with clinical staff in up to 4-6 EDs to understand their perspective on why patients attend the Emergency Department. In addition a mapping of the patient journey from time of emergency call to ‘999’ or NHS111 up to the point of discharge from care will be used to better understand pathways of care available to patients. |