York Hospital’s emergency unit have appealed for our support as they aim to tackle unprecedented levels of demand, by asking patients to travel alone where it is possible.
Dr Ed Smith, the Deputy Medical Director at York Hospital Foundation Trust said, “Our emergency departments are busy all year round but are exceptionally busy at the moment with a high volume of poorly patients attending.”
“While we understand it’s appropriate for a friend or family member to accompany a child or as a carer, if patients can attend alone, this will help free up much needed space for other patients.”
In the last few weeks, demand for the service has skyrocketed with more 450 people attending every single day.
Another alternative is to consider attending an Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) rather than A&E.
UTCs provide medical help when it’s not a life-threatening emergency. They can diagnose and deal with many of the common problems people go to the emergency department for.
Full details of urgent treatment centres can be found by visiting www.yorkhospitals.nhs.uk/our-services/a-z-of-services/minor-injuries-unit/
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