East Lancashire health chiefs say early soundings have indicated many patients travelling to Blackburn think Burnley General does not have urgent care facilities.

Yet the truth is that, in eight out of 10 cases, patients needing treatment for illness or accidents can be treated at Burnley, rather than going to the Royal Blackburn Hospital, off the M65's Junction 5 at Shadsworth.

However, while the area's two Urgent Care Centres remain the most appropriate place for less serious illness and injury, if a parent thinks their child is seriously ill, they must call 999 and ask for the ambulance service or bring them to the Emergency Department at Royal Blackburn Hospital.

Health bosses are now doing more in-depth research to give accurate data on where patients are going and what their understanding is of the facilities available to them throughout East Lancashire.

They are concerned that "misunderstandings" may have occurred, resulting in an incorrect knowledge about just what is available locally for patients in Burnley and Pendle.

In response, the PCT has backed a major 'Take Care' campaign to signpost people to appropriate facilities. This campaign is under way, with houmes throughout Burnley, Pendle and the Ribble Valley receiving a leaflet and fridge magnet indicating how to use NHS facilities "at the right time and in the right place."

Cief executive Mr David Peat said: "We need to remind people about what NHS services are available, and where and how the people of this area can best make use of them, particularly those who live in the Burnley and Pendle area.

"The early indications of Burnley and Pendle people travelling to use Blackburn Urgent Care facilities needlessly is worrying. We must get the message across that though blue light cases go to the new emergency facilities at the Royal Blackburn Hospital, more than 80% of matters can be dealt with in Burnley.

"We need to do more research on patient journeys and perceptions about what is avaialable and where. I am assured this work is under way but I welcome the call for a practical and positive approach from those who represent the public and their views, with us all working together to help local residents to use facilities properly and appropriately."