Going to Hospital NHS Lothian provides primary, community-based and acute hospital services for the second largest residential population in Scotland. In this section, you will find useful information about how and when to attend hospitals in Lothian. Are You Looking for Information on the Temporary Closure of The Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion? Services are being moved from the Eye Pavilion to various locations across Lothian. Find Out More About This Move Emergency Departments Please remember that Emergency Department (ED) services for adults are only available at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and St John’s Hospital in Livingston. There is also an ED at the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People in Edinburgh. What is an Emergency? An emergency is a critical or life threatening situation. Please only dial 999 or attend ED in person in an emergency. The Emergency Department is not an appropriate destination if you are looking for a second opinion on an existing condition or for minor illnesses or if you have a minor injury. If you think you need to attend ED, but it is not life threatening, please dial 111 to be directed to the right service and to be given an appointment if you do need to attend hospital. Minor Injury Clinics If you have a minor injury please dial 111 to be directed to the right service. Some minor injuries can be treated with help from a local pharmacist or via video consultation with a qualified Nurse Practitioner. If you require further assessment or treatment you will be given a face to face appointment to attend a minor injury unit. Minor injuries can include, but are not limited to: Strains and sprains Wounds and minor burns Minor bumps to head and face Simple eye injuries Insect bites and stings If you are scheduled a face to face appointment this will be at your nearest available minor injury unit which could be at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, the Western General Hospital or St John’s Hospital if you are aged 16 and over. Children aged 15 and under will be asked to attend the Royal Hospital for Children and Young People or can also be scheduled an appointment at St John’s Hospital or the Western General Hospital. Welcoming in Lothian (Visiting) Information on visiting, including any restrictions and guidance. For the latest guidance on visiting please click here Transport and Access Information Visit the transport and access information section for guidance on making delivery to any of our sites. Links to Lothian transport services can be found on our Travel web page
