The NSMC has just completed a primary research project to identify the reasons why people go to A&E rather than other urgent care services that may be more appropriate to their needs.  The research is very revealing with many people stating that they judge the waiting time of often over three hours at A&E more favourable than other healthcare alternatives, especially when they believed they would need some form of diagnostic test that would take place in a hospital.  There was also a general lack of knowledge of other urgent care services including the 111 service and Walk In Centres.  It was clear that A&E remains a trusted service to many people despite a number of alternatives being available.