Fresh appeal after SECOND busy weekend in a row at A&E in Cornwall
The Royal Cornwall says at one point on Sunday, around 70 patients were in the department
Last updated 7th Feb 2022
Cornwall is AGAIN being urged to avoid A&E unless it is a life-threatening emergency, after a second busy weekend in a row at Treliske.
At one point on Sunday 6th February, almost 70 patients were inside casualty at Treliske.
People are being urged to call 111 before turning up and the appeal comes as admissions due to Covid remain high.
The Royal Cornwall Hospitals' NHS Trust has restricted visitor access to just patients at end of life, maternity, paediatrics and exceptional circumstances, to keep people safe.
On Friday 3rd February, more than 10 hospital wards across Cornwall had reported closures due to coronavirus.
Across the Tamar, officials say Plymouth's NHS remains under "severe pressure".
It comes after dozens of ambulances were pictured waiting outside Derriford Hospital.
In a statement released on Sunday 30th January, the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust said: "The Emergency Department at Royal Cornwall Hospital (Treliske) is exceptionally busy this weekend, with around 70 people in the department right now and ambulances waiting.
"Our staff are working incredibly hard, please help them care for those with the most serious injury and illness by using alternative services wherever you can.
"Save yourself time and a wasted journey as we may send you elsewhere.
“Pharmacies, 111 and minor injury units are all open".
The statement continues: "If you’re not sure which service to use call our expert team on 111 for advice and access to out of hours GPs".
You can check waiting times and where else to go for treatment on the NHS Kernow Choose Well website.