A&Es overrun by people with 'minor injuries' during strikes

People in Greater Manchester are being told they'll have to wait 11 hours

A&E at Royal Albert Edward Hospital, Wigan
Published 3rd Jan 2024

An NHS Trust in Greater Manchester is issuing a warning about busy A&E Departments as junior Doctors begin a 6 day strike.

The strike, which coincides with heightened winter pressures, prompts warnings for the public to reconsider A&E visits.

They are reporting many people are attending emergency departments with minor injuries that could be dealt with at GP surgeries or pharmacies.

Trusts advise caution, and the NHS anticipates a challenging start to the year due to potential workforce reduction.

In response, Greater Manchester Police highlights the strain on the hospital system, urging awareness and understanding of the circumstances.

Bolton NHS Foundation Trust reports emergency department waiting times of up to eleven hours.

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