'Critical incident' declared at Derriford Hospital
It's because of severe pressure on services including the Emergency Department
Last updated 5th Jan 2024
A critical incident has been declared at Derriford Hospital.
The Plymouth University Hospitals NHS Trust is blaming sustained pressure across the hospital, with large numbers of patients at the Emergency Department over the last three days.
Anyone who attends the Emergency Department without an emergency or life-threatening condition could be redirected to other services like NHS 111, the Urgent Treatment Centre at the Cumberland centre, or the Minor Injury Units at Kingsbridge and Tavistock.
Anyone who needs urgent care is asked to call the NHS 111 number or use 111 online.
Ann James, Chief Executive at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, said: “Our Emergency Department is there for life-threatening conditions and real emergencies. If you can use other services, such as NHS 111, pharmacy or your GP, please do so. If you do come to the Emergency Department and it is not an emergency or a life-threatening condition, then you may be redirected.
“It’s really important we make sure that the sickest patients are prioritised and that we keep our services flowing for those who are in greatest need. Therefore, we ask that at this time unless you are carer or the patient that is coming to the hospital is particularly distressed, that those who accompany patients not to come into the Emergency Department as we need the seating spaces for patients to sit down and be comfortable.
“We ask that patients, visitors and families be kind to one another and continue to treat staff with respect during this extremely busy period.”