Critical incident declared at Dudley's Russells Hall Hospital
It follows "severe pressure" being placed upon services at the Hospital
Last updated 15th Jan 2024
A critical incident has been declared at Russells Hall Hospital in Dudley.
The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust says it follows "severe pressure on its services, caused by long waits at A&E and increased waits for admissions into wards.
The Trust say that essential services, including the Emergency Department, remain open, and that care will be prioritised based upon clinical need to ensure safe services continue for patients.
People are being asked to call 111, or your local GP or pharmacist, for non-essential illnesses, and to contact the number on their appointment letter if you are unable to attend so it can be reallocated to another patient.
Diane Wake, CEO of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, says "our staff are working tirelessly to provide the best possible care under these challenging circumstances in a safe and timely manner.
"Our main focus is providing care for patients who need urgent or emergency care, and those who are receiving inpatient care in our clinical sites.
“Our health and care services are continuing to work together to resolve the situation. If people need medical help, we would ask them to visit NHS111 online or use a service in the local area such as a local pharmacist or GP.”