The Direct Assessment Unit at Antrim Area Hospital provides urgent diagnosis, observation and treatment to patients on the same day that they are referred. If patients cannot be stabilised, we will arrange direct admission to the hospital. The patient will also be given a follow-up appointment if required.
The Direct Assessment Unit is equipped with comfortable chairs, toilet facilities, television and Wi-Fi access. Meals and refreshments are provided throughout the patient’s stay.
How to access the service
Access to the Direct Assessment Unit is by referral only. Referrals can be made by:
- General Practitioners (GPs)
- Northern Ireland Ambulance Service
- Other hospital clinicians
Clinicians can also speak directly with medical staff at the Unit to receive specialist advice.
The Unit accepts referrals for a wide range of medical conditions.
We also have a Rapid Access Medical Clinic for patients who do not require same day assessment but do require assessment within one or two days. This clinic can be accessed by contacting the Direct Assessment Unit medical staff to discuss the referral.
Opening hours
Monday to Friday, from 9:00am to 8:00pm.
The unit accepts referrals for same day assessment between 9:00am to 6:00pm. Referrers can phone for advice up until 8:00pm. If a patient is unable to attend before 6:00pm, they can be offered an appointment the next day. Ideally, patients should attend the unit as soon as possible after the referral is made, to prevent delays in assessing them.
Where to find us
Direct Assessment Unit
Level B, Antrim Area Hospital, Bush Road, Antrim, BT41 2RL.
You can enter through the Direct Assessment Unit entrance or main hospital entrance.
Access Guide for Antrim Area Hospital Direct Assessment Unit
How to contact us
- Telephone: 028 9442 4000 (main switchboard)
- Internal extension: 334309 or 334728.