Know Where to Go for Minor Injuries This Summer in Cork

As summer brings longer days, more outdoor activities and increased participation in sport, it also brings a higher chance of minor injuries. Whether it’s a sprained ankle on the pitch, a broken finger during training or a minor burn while enjoying the outdoors, knowing where to get the right treatment can save time and help you get back on your feet sooner.

HSE Injury Units in Cork provide expert care for a wide range of injuries that are not life-threatening and do not require admission to hospital. Patients can attend without an appointment and are often seen more quickly than in an Emergency Department (ED). 

What Can HSE Injury Units Treat?

HSE Injury Units treat recent injuries (less than six weeks old) that are not life-threatening. Conditions commonly treated include:

• Broken bones from knees to toes
• Broken bones from collarbone to fingertips
• Sprains, strains and dislocations
• Minor facial injuries, including dental and nasal injuries
• Minor scalds and burns
• Cuts, wounds, grazes and bites
• Scalp lacerations
• Small abscesses and boils
• Splinters and fish hooks
• Objects stuck in the eyes, ears or nose
• Certain minor head injuries where the patient remains fully conscious and has not experienced loss of consciousness or vomiting after the injury

Expert Care Without an Appointment

At HSE Injury Units, patients are treated by specialised doctors, consultants and nurses. Services include:

• X-rays
• Plaster casts
• Wound treatment and stitches
• Referral to specialist care where required
• Follow-up appointments when necessary
• No appointment is needed, making Injury Units a convenient option for many common injuries. 

When Should You Go to an Emergency Department?

While Injury Units are suitable for many minor injuries, people should attend an Emergency Department if they have suffered a serious injury, particularly one involving the:

• Head
• Neck
• Chest
• Back 

Injury Units in Cork

Residents and visitors in Cork can access Injury Units at:

• The Mercy Injury Unit
• Mallow Injury Unit
• Bantry Injury Unit 

Cost of Attendance

The cost of attending an Injury Unit is €75. There is no charge for patients who have:

• A full medical card
• A valid GP referral letter
• A valid medical referral letter 

Be Prepared This Summer

Whether you’re playing sport, hiking, cycling or enjoying family activities outdoors, it is worth knowing where your nearest Injury Unit is before an injury happens. Injury Units offer fast access to expert care for many common injuries, helping to ease pressure on Emergency Departments while ensuring patients receive the treatment they need. 

To find your nearest Injury Unit, view opening hours and learn more about the services available, visit the HSE Injury Unit Finder

Know where to go this summer. For many minor injuries, your local HSE Injury Unit could be the right choice.