Derriford apologises for long waits at A&E as NHS workers voice frustration
One patient had to wait 22 hours to be seen at the Plymouth hospital
Last updated 24th May 2022
Plymouth's Derriford Hospital has apologised to patients for long waiting times at A&E - after one patient waited 22 hours to be seen.
We've also been contacted about another case which saw an ambulance crew waiting with a patient for their entire shift from 9am, then being replaced by another ambulance crew who continued waiting with the patient.
Earlier this year we reported on 22 ambulances being parked outside Torbay Hospital
Labour's Luke Pollard is the Plymouth, Sutton and Devonport MP:
Recently Plymouth Moor View's Conservative MP Johnny Mercer also voiced concerns about the pressures on staff.
A spokesperson for University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust said: “University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust is a major trauma centre and as such we provide specialist services for the south west peninsula, receiving some of the most acutely unwell patients by road and air ambulance.
"We recognise that patients are waiting in ambulances when they should be seen more quickly in the Emergency Department.
“Our emergency department is experiencing exceptional challenges including seeing continuing cases of Covid-19.
"The high level of demand and patient acuity impacts admitting patients in a timely way, and this has a knock-on effect on the flow of patients through our hospital and out into the community.
"Our dedicated staff are working extremely hard to care for people who need our services and ensure patients are prioritised in order of clinical need.
"We are working closely with SWAST and local system partners to reduce handover wait times and discharges.
“We apologise to anyone who experiences a long wait, and thank those who have been waiting for the kindness and understanding they are showing to our staff.
"Please could everyone think carefully about which service is right for their needs before attending our Emergency Department.
"Please use NHS 111 – online or by phone if you need advice or medical treatment quickly and can't wait to see your GP. If you need to be seen by a Minor Injuries or Emergency Department they can book you in.”
The situation at Derriford earlier this year:
A spokesperson for the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust said: “Due to the whole health and social care system being under sustained pressure, patients are having to wait longer for an ambulance than they would expect.
“Our performance has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, due partly to handover delays, and sometimes it’s taking us too long to get an ambulance to patients.
“We are working with our partners to ensure our crews can get back out on the road as quickly as possible, to respond to other 999 calls.
"We would encourage people who have family and friends who are medically fit to leave hospital to support them where they are able to do so, and as ever, if you need emergency care please call 999 or use 111 online for other medical support.”