Fresh appeal after 'exceptionally busy' weekend at A&E in Cornwall
The Royal Cornwall says at one point on Sunday, around 70 patients were in the department
Last updated 31st Jan 2022
Reports of ambulances waiting outside A&E have sparked a fresh appeal to help ease the pressure on Cornwall's main hospital.
Bosses say around 70 patients were in casualty at Treliske at one point on Sunday.
People are being urged to call 111 before turning up, unless there case is a genuine or life-threatening emergency.
Bosses have described this weekend as "exceptionally busy".
The appeal comes as hospital admissions due to Covid remain high.
The Royal Cornwall Hospitals' NHS Trust has restricted visitor access to just patients at end of life, maternity, paediatrics and exceptional circumstances, to keep people safe.
In a statement released on Sunday 30th January, the Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust said: "The Emergency Department at Royal Cornwall Hospital (Treliske) is exceptionally busy this weekend, with around 70 people in the department right now and ambulances waiting.
"Our staff are working incredibly hard, please help them care for those with the most serious injury and illness by using alternative services wherever you can.
"Save yourself time and a wasted journey as we may send you elsewhere.
“Pharmacies, 111 and minor injury units are all open".
The statement continues: "If you’re not sure which service to use call our expert team on 111 for advice and access to out of hours GPs".
You can check waiting times and where else to go for treatment on the NHS Kernow Choose Well website.