Spike in demand at A&E sparks half term warning in Cornwall
Locals and holidaymakers are being asked to use alternative services
People in Cornwall are being urged to use alternative services following a surge in hospital admissions at Treliske.
NHS staff are calling on both residents and holidaymakers for support.
Following a spike in emergency admissions at the Royal Cornwall Hospital ahead of the half term holiday, people are being asked to call 111 or use alternative services if they need urgent but not emergency care.
Hospital bosses say Saturday saw another increase and they are expecting a busy week.
“The rise in admissions isn’t related to coronavirus or holidaymakers, but we are seeing more poorly people, particularly elderly patients, who need our care. Many are also needing to stay longer in hospital which ultimately means more pressure on our Emergency Department and longer waits to be seen.
“With more people likely to be heading to the county over the next few days we want to remind residents and those coming to stay, to first call their own GP, even if they are here on holiday, when they need care for something that’s urgent by not serious or life-threatening. If it’s outside of GP surgery hours, they should go online – www.111.nhs.uk – or call 111 for advice on the best place for their care.”
Emergency Department consultant, Dr Toby Slade
Using the 111 First service will mean that if someone does need to go to a minor injury unit or the Emergency Department, the teams there will know they are coming and can manage the way people come into the departments.
“The capacity in our waiting rooms is much less due to social distancing guidance, so by using your GP or the 111 First service people can help us to keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of spreading coronavirus. We’re doing really well in Cornwall to keep levels of the virus low and need the continued support of patients by using the right services and not coming to our Emergency Department unless they really need to.”
The hospitals are also calling on support from families wherever they might be able to help their relative go home from hospital sooner when they are medically fit but just need a little extra support with basic needs such as cooking, washing and dressing.
“If people can provide this help for their relatives, it’ll mean we can free up beds in our hospitals for new emergencies and safely look after all of those who need our specialist care and support.”