Critical incident declared at Shropshire hospitals
It's the second critical incident in less than a week
The trust which runs Shrewsbury and Telford's hospitals has declared a second critical incident in less than a week.
In a statement, Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust say the decision is down to 'intense pressure due to the exceptionally high levels of demand for the services'...'as well as the ongoing impacts from COVID-19.'
Troubles around discharging medically fit patients have also been stated as an issue as well.
Bosses at the trust, which runs hospitals like The Princess Royal Hospital, say 'every possible option' is being taken to free up and create additional space. The incident's been declared so hospitals can prioritise services, but it does mean that a 'very limited' number of non-urgent services have been paused.
Urgent services, including cancer, and time-critical procedures will continue, and patients who are directly affected by the decision are being told they'll be contacted by staff.
Patients who have appointments at the hospitals run by the Trust, but haven't been contacted about rearranging it, are being told to attend as normal. Any postponed procedures or appointments will be rescheduled as soon as possible.
The statement continues with; 'We are very sorry for those impacted by this and we would like to assure you that, despite the challenges faced and some changes to non-urgent appointments, essential services remain fully open for anyone who needs them so if you require urgent medical help, please continue to come forward.
We would ask that you also continue to help us where you can by ensuring that you are seeking help from the most appropriate health services, and only attending A&E for serious accidents and emergencies. If you are unwell, visit NHS 111 online for 24/7 advice about the most appropriate care for your need.'