Dumfries Infirmary ‘stretched beyond capacity’ as patient numbers grow
The NHS say there's no one clear reason for the increase in demand
Last updated 10th Nov 2023
NHS Dumfries & Galloway have announced its region wide health and social partnership is experiencing ‘significant pressures’, including increased waiting times in the emergency department of Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.
With a high level of activity, the health board say staff are being stretched across a wide range of services.
Chief Officer for Dumfries & Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership Julie White said:
“The challenge being faced right now is very significant, and is impacting on our ability to deliver appropriate, timely treatment and care.
“This week, our Emergency Department at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary is being stretched beyond capacity.
“We have experienced very high numbers of attendances to the Emergency Department.
“This means that people may be waiting much longer than we would want as a result of prioritisation of clinical need.”
The Chief Officer added: “There is not one single, immediate explanation for the current high level of activity but we are seeing both an increase in the volume of demand and the level of need.
Various challenges are being faced
It’s understood difficulties are also being encountered around the discharge of medically fit patients, who are unable to leave due to care shortages or guardianship issues.
Addressing the matter, Julie White said:
“We are continuing to work closely with our Partner organisations to increase capacity within social care and recognise the huge efforts that are being made by our Care at Home providers and our Care Homes to support this very difficult position.
“Urgent operations are continuing to take place, and we’re working to continue to deliver scheduled operations – but the pressures are huge.”
NHS Dumfries & Galloway are encouraging people to come forward should they need help, but to first consider the most appropriate support required for their circumstance.
It’s understood advice for many issues is available on the NHS inform website, or via NHS 24 on 111.
GPs and community pharmacists are also being highlighted as excellent points of contact for matters not considered an emergency.
The public are being thanked for the support and understanding during these ongoing challenges.