Under Pressure Hospitals Postpone Operations

Hospitals are struggling to perform routine operations following a surge in demand.

Published 7th Jan 2015

More medical procedures have been postponed as hospitals in parts of Scotland remain "very busy'' today.

NHS Grampian said 45 planned procedures at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary would be rearranged as soon as possible.

The health board said it "categorically denies'' suggestions of shortages of drugs or mattresses.

A spokeswoman said: "We have opened additional areas to cope with the current pressure which may mean that in the lead-up to these areas receiving patients, equipment may be in transit and not immediately available.

"We would emphasise that for sound safety reasons, clinical areas are not open to patients until all the necessary arrangements are in place.

"Aberdeen Royal Infirmary remains very busy but staff are working hard to care appropriately for their patients and we thank them for their tremendous dedication.

"We are also grateful to the public for their understanding at this time.''

It comes after various hospitals around the country experienced high levels of demand over the weekend and into the working week.

NHS Forth Valley said the emergency department at the Forth Valley Royal was busy at the weekend, with just under 400 people attending over Saturday and Sunday.

A spokeswoman for Raigmore Hospital, the largest in the NHS Highland area, said the A&E department expects to receive 75 to 130 patients per day at this time of year and the figure has recently been standing at around 100.

Health bosses said they appreciate the understanding of the public at what is typically a busy time for hospitals.