Call to reduce bed-blocking strain on Salisbury Hospital over Christmas
Salisbury District Hospital is approaching it's busiest period of the year
Health bosses in Wiltshire are calling for us to help ease bed-blocking over Christmas by collecting loved ones from care as quickly as possible.
Hospitals across the county are approaching their busiest period and are taking steps to prepare themselves as patient numbers begin to increase.
The Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) is calling for our help in avoiding delays by providing lifts home from hospital, collecting prescriptions, ensuring a patient’s home is heated and stocking their cupboard with staple food items.
“We know that being at home can really help patients with their recovery and well being," said Sarah Richards, Acting Chief Medical Officer, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust.
She added: "Nobody wants to stay in hospital longer than necessary, particularly at Christmas, when they could be back home and spending time with family and friends.
“So, if there is a loved one in hospital who is well enough to be discharged, please speak to ward staff to learn how family members can support their continued recovery at home.
“By getting those patients who are well enough to leave us back home, we are freeing up beds for those people who need urgent or emergency care.”
The ICB is also encouraging us to check on friends, family and neighbours in the first days after their return home from hospital and offering help with their longer-term recovery.
We're asked not to enter the hospital when feeling unwell, even if they're collecting someone, as it is easy to spread winter illnesses such as flu, norovirus and Covid-19.