NHS in Hampshire and Isle of Wight declares another critical incident
We're told the health and care system has been under significant pressure since Christmas
A critical incident has been declared across health services in Hampshire and Isle of Wight.
There is significant ongoing pressure on NHS services with rising rates of flu and nearly all hospital beds full across the area.
Nicky Lucey, Chief Nursing Officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board, said: “Health and care services throughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are currently experiencing incredibly high demand which has meant that a critical incident has been declared today.
“We appeal for your help today due to the significant pressure that continues to be felt throughout the health and care system since the Christmas weekend.
“Dedicated teams are working day and night to give patients the care that they need as soon as possible. We recognise during this period of significant pressure that it is not always possible to give this care as quickly as we would like. This is why we need your help once again during the busy New Year period.”
We're told flu cases remain very high.
Urgent treatment centres, GP practices, minor injuries and ambulance services are also experiencing incredible pressure at the moment as we all try to do our very best for our communities.
Extra steps to help your NHS include making sure you have a good supply of paracetamol and ibuprofen and treat minor ailments such as coughs and colds at home, drinking plenty of fluids. Your local pharmacy opening times over the bank holiday weekend can be found here.
Health bosses say staff are here for you but it is important that services are available for those in urgent need during this critical incident.
If you share a household or are a carer, close friend or relative to someone in hospital, and are their key point of contact, you can additionally help by:
• Staying in contact with the hospital ward they are on so everyone is clear about the expected date of discharge
• Supporting with any necessary arrangements to provide suitable clothing and shoes for the patient and understanding their ongoing medication needs
• Helping with their transport home. If you can help take a relative, friend or neighbour home when they are ready to leave hospital then it helps them to get home more quickly and it helps the NHS, too.