Warning over scheduled operations as health services in the Borders remain under 'extreme pressure'
Last updated 30th Oct 2023
NHS Borders is warning it may need to cancel scheduled operations at short notice due to a shortage of beds.
The health board says local hospital services remain under "extreme pressure", with a number of people requiring admission.
But adds staff are working hard to minimise disruption.
A spokesperson said: "Taking these decisions is not easy but it can be necessary to make sure that we are able to continue vital services during challenging times."
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Health chiefs say the situation remains under constant review.
'We are working hard to minimise disruption however there may be times where we need to cancel scheduled operations at short notice to maintain patient and staff safety.'
Anyone needing to visit the Emergency Department at Borders General Hospital is being urged to call NHS 24 on 111 first, unless their situation is life-threatening.
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"You may need to wait a while for your call to be answered or for a member of the team to call you back, but this can be done in the comfort of your own home," they add.
"If you do need to be seen, you may be given an appointment time to minimise the time you need to spend in the department. This also reduces pressure on our team.
"If you think that your condition is immediately life-threatening you should call 999."
Anyone with a loved-one fit to be discharged is being urged to help get them home, while anyone feeling under the weather is being reminded not to visit.
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