article_snippet: The problem is largely caused by the fact that patients find it difficult to see a GP, particularly out of hours.
article_snippet: But the unnecessary visits are adding to the pressures of busy departments and diverting staff from treating patients who are very seriously ill.
article_snippet: It all came to a head in January when 13 hospitals declared major internal incidents in a two-day period as 13 hospitals were unable to cope with the numbers coming through the door.
article_snippet: But Dr Clifford Mann, president of the College of Emergency Medicine, which represents A&E doctors said attempts to divert patients did not work.
article_snippet: He said the only solution was to install GP clinics at A&E units so patients with minor ailments could be sent there leaving staff to deal with the more serious cases.
article_snippet: And the NHS has missed the NHS target for ensuring 95 per cent of patients are dealt with within four hours every week for the last six months.
highlights_snippet: Problem is exacerbated by the fact it is so hard to see a GP,  experts say .