Two wards at Cornwall's biggest hospital reportedly 'emptied' ahead of G7 Summit
NHS Kernow say "additional capacity" has been created, but insist no patients are discharged unless medically fit
There are reports that Cornwall's main hospital has cleared two wards ahead of the G7 Summit.
It is claimed that is to free up space at Treliske, in case it is needed for delegates, VIPS, police or protestors.
NHS Kernow says they have created 'additional capacity', like they would for any major event.
However, bosses insist patients are only being discharged when they are medically fit and have the right social care package.
A spokesperson said: "As at any time when we expect increased demand for our services, we work together with our health and care partners to create additional capacity in our hospitals. We have done this to ensure we are prepared for G7, as we would with any major event in the county.
“Patients being discharged are, as always, medically fit and with an adult social care package in place when required.
"This is business as usual for health and social care. It is not good for people to remain in hospital longer than they need to and places additional pressure on our hospitals.
"We work closely with Cornwall Council to ensure it has put in place a social care package to support anyone who is fit and well enough to leave hospital. Especially when our hospitals are so busy".
NHS Kernow
NHS Kernow has tweeted a series of appeals for people not to call 999 or turn up at A&E unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
In a statement posted to their website, they said: "The NHS is working with Cornwall Council and Devon and Cornwall Police to ensure any disruption in the run up to and during the G7 summit is kept to a minimum for people living in St Ives, Falmouth, Newquay and the surrounding areas.
"People living in, or visiting these areas are being advised to think ahead and to make sure they know how to get help, if needed.
"Please do not turn up at a minor injury unit (MIU), or urgent treatment centre (UTC) without contacting 111 first. You can call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.
"If, after contacting 111, you need to attend an MIU or UTC, you will be given details of where to go. This is to help everyone follow government guidance, maintain distance and to keep everyone safe while COVID continues to circulate.
"Please do not visit an emergency department unless you have an urgent, life-threatening condition such as a suspected heart attack, stroke, severe loss of blood, difficulty breathing, or are unconscious.
"If you're not sure where to go, call 111 or visit http://111.nhs.uk for help".
NHS Kernow
World leaders are due to meet for the three-day summit at Carbis Bay, starting on Friday 11th June.