Pharmacists can help treat coughs, colds, sore throats, earache, nappy rash, cystitis (bladder infection), impetigo (skin condition) and emergency contraception. You can also get advice on prescription medicines. Some pharmacies are also open in the evening and at the weekend – visit www.nhs.uk – to find your nearest pharmacy.

Pharmacists can arrange an emergency supply of medicines if you forget to renew your prescription, even if you don’t live in Cornwall and lastly remember to stock up your medicine cabinet with paracetamol, antiseptic etc if you have a condition that can be treated at home.

And remember minor injury units -11 across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly – can treat a range of conditions which have occurred during the previous 14 days. These include sprains and strains; broken bones; minor burns and scalds; head injuries (but not if someone is unconscious); insect and animal bites and stings; minor eye injuries, cuts, bruising and grazes. You will be seen by an experienced nurse, without an appointment.

The X-ray department supporting the minor injury unit at St Austell Community Hospital in now open is now open longer – 9am until 8pm every day, including weekends and bank holiday until the end of March 2020, as part of measures to keep the Truro emergency department free for those most in need.

If you are unsure if your minor injury can be treated at one of the 11 units, telephone the local unit before travelling (and also confirm the availability of x-ray facilities, if thought to be needed), or call NHS 111. The links below provide opening times, directions and contact details.
• Bodmin Community Hospital – open until 10 pm
• Camborne Redruth Community Hospital – open until 10pm
• Falmouth Community Hospital – open until 8pm
• Helston Community Hospital – open until 8pm
• Launceston Community Hospital – open until 8pm
• Liskeard Community Hospital – open until 10pm
• Newquay Community Hospital – open until 10pm
• St Austell Community Hospital – open until 8pm
• St Mary’s Community Hospital, Isles of Scilly – open 24 hours
• Stratton Community Hospital – open until 10pm
• Stennack Surgery, St Ives – open until 8pm

Up to the minute waiting times for all minor injury units and the urgent treatment centre at Penzance – which is open 24 hours a day – can be found on our website.

If you do have a loved one or friend who is ready to leave an acute or community hospital you can help us help them by collecting them as early in the day as possible because the Royal Cornwall Hospital is very busy right now.
Find more information HERE