Four hospital trusts have announced critical incidents due to significant and prolonged pressures affecting their services. The surge in flu and norovirus cases, along with staff absences, has worsened the situation. NHS Surrey Heartlands mentioned that the recent cold weather has also prompted more patients to seek medical help.
In Surrey, three trusts, namely Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, and Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust, have declared critical incidents. Additionally, East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust, specifically Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate, has also declared a critical incident due to sustained pressures.
According to Surrey Heartlands, the critical incidents were declared to ensure safe, high-quality care for patients amidst increased demand. The trusts are facing challenges with a surge in complex A&E cases and difficulties in discharging patients promptly. Factors like rising flu and norovirus cases, staff sickness, and the recent cold weather have exacerbated the situation.
Dr. Charlotte Canniff, Joint Chief Medical Officer of NHS Surrey Heartlands, stated that the critical incidents allow hospitals to maintain safe services under extreme pressure. Some non-urgent operations and appointments may need rescheduling to prioritize urgent cases. Patients are advised to attend appointments unless notified otherwise, with a focus on prioritizing critical services.
Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust also declared a critical incident due to high A&E attendance and patient admissions. The trust is working on discharging patients efficiently to improve hospital flow. Patients are urged to seek the appropriate healthcare service for their needs.
The hospitals mentioned, including Royal Surrey County Hospital, Haslemere Hospital, Epsom Hospital, St Helier Hospital, East Surrey Hospital, and other facilities, are facing increased demand amidst the critical incidents. The trusts continue to provide essential services despite challenges, emphasizing the importance of using services appropriately and only visiting A&E for emergencies.