Hospital services under pressure
The Isle of Wight NHS Trust is currently facing increased demand for its services with bosses urging people to only attend A&E in an emergency
St Mary's hospital in Newport is dealing with the continuing threat posed by COVID-19 and the usual winter pressures including staff sickness.
If it’s not an emergency, people are being urged to visit NHS111 online or call NHS 111, where they will have access to a range of local healthcare services.
It includes appointments with the urgent treatment centre, GP out-of-hours service or a telephone call with a healthcare specialist to allow people to receive care and advice at home.
Steve Parker, Medical Director for the Isle of Wight NHS Trust said:
“We are experiencing a very busy time in our hospital and across all health care services and we expect the pandemic and the usual winter pressures to bring additional pressures, with our teams working hard to deliver high quality care.
“We thank our community for their continued support in following COVID-19 guidelines and getting vaccinated to help protect themselves, their families and the NHS and I urge you to help us help you by using emergency services appropriately.
“There is a wealth of other support on offer for non-urgent physical and mental health. You can access health care advice from our local community pharmacies and visit NHS 111 online. By taking these steps in the first instance, you will allow the health care services to focus on those patients that need our services most.
“We encourage you to continue to keep safe by practising the advice given to have your COVID and flu vaccinations, to wear a mask in public spaces and for those spending time indoors with loved ones, to ensure the space is well ventilated. We wish everyone a safe and healthy New Year.”