24 January 2017

Shropshire’s acute hospitals continue to experience very high levels of demand, with health officials repeating their call for people to think about whether their visit to A&E is really necessary.

The Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and the Princess Royal Hospital in Telford continue to see a rising number of patients coming to A&E, with almost 100 more patients seen last week than the week before.

Last week, 2,083 patients were seen in A&E compared to 1,984 in the previous week. Of those 2,083, a total of 683 were brought in by ambulance.

Sara Biffen, Deputy Chief Operating Officer at The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust, which runs the two hospitals, said: “It is no secret that hospitals across the country are facing incredibly high levels of demand this winter, and we are no different.

“Since the beginning of the year we have seen nearly 7,000 patients at our A&Es – around 300 patients every day. I would again like to thank our staff who are working so hard to ensure our patients are treated safely and with kindness during this very busy time.

“It is always our intention to ensure patients are seen as quickly as possible, however our first priority must always be the safe care of patients and we put that above everything else. When we experience such demand, we always ensure that we prioritise the most seriously ill and injured patients.

“We know that for some, a journey to A&E is essential; but we also know that there are many people who do not need the specialist care that our A&Es provide.

“Once again we would ask people to please think carefully about alternative local services. These do not provide less of a service for non-urgent conditions, but can help people avoid what can be a lengthy and stressful visit to hospital.

“Many conditions can be seen much more quickly using alternative services and A&E should only be used for the most serious injuries and illnesses.

“Pharmacies are often seen simply as dispensaries for medication, but pharmacists are experts in medicines and will use their clinical expertise, together with their practical knowledge to offer advice on common problems such as coughs, colds, aches and pains and can also help you decide whether you need to see a doctor.

“NHS 111 can provide medical help fast when it’s not a 999 emergency.

“As well as this, minor injuries units in Bridgnorth, Whitchurch, Ludlow, Oswestry, Welshpool and Newtown may treat you quicker than A&E for minor injuries.

“Once again I would like to thank people for supporting our Doctors, Nurses and other staff in helping to ensure our A&Es can provide the best care to those who needed most at this very busy time.”