Multiple Hospitals Report Critical Incidents Due to Increase in Flu Admissions
One patient at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital had to wait over two days in accident and emergency due to service pressure.
Several NHS trusts have declared critical incidents as they struggle to manage high demand, especially with increasing flu cases.
Hospitals are advising patients to come alone to limit virus spread, as demand for services remains high.
NHS England’s national medical director, Professor Sir Stephen Powis, emphasized the strain on frontline staff and the continuous high demand for services.
Various hospitals, including those in Birmingham, Cornwall, Hampshire, Liverpool, Northamptonshire, and Plymouth, have announced critical incidents recently.
A critical incident is declared when health care services are overwhelmed, necessitating special measures to maintain patient safety.
Patients Advised to Come Alone
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust faced significant care demand, especially with older patients experiencing respiratory issues worsened by cold weather.
York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust urged patients to attend medical appointments alone if possible.
East Sussex Hospital Trust limited visitors to one per patient per day, with exceptions for certain cases.
Flu Season Challenge
Recent NHS data showed a considerable increase in flu cases compared to the previous month.
Dr. Adrian Boyle of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine highlighted the strain on emergency care due to the regular flu season, challenging the already overwhelmed system.
Long Waiting Times
Non-urgent patients were warned about potential long wait times in accident and emergency units.
Some trusts suggested considering alternative options like contacting a GP, calling NHS 111, or visiting a pharmacist.
At the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, at least one patient faced a wait of more than two days in A&E due to service pressure.
Dr. Annie Farrell, representing GPs in Liverpool, noted the increasing number of sick patients struggling to receive prompt care.
Minister’s Commitment
Health Secretary Wes Streeting vowed to work towards consistent improvement in A&E services, recognizing the current pressures on the healthcare system.
The government plans to release an emergency care reform plan soon, with a focus on addressing challenges during the winter season.
In October, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer launched a consultation on the future of the NHS to shape the government’s forthcoming 10-year health plan.
PA Media contributed to this report.
