A Welsh health board has warned that A&E departments at three hospitals are facing huge pressures in the run up to Christmas. Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board say that the emergency departments at the Royal Glamorgan, Prince Charles and Princess of Wales hospitals are “exceptionally busy” and have been dealing with “very high numbers of unwell patients” since the beginning of this week (Monday, December 16).
The most seriously injured and ill patients are being prioritised at these hospitals, but the health board warn that some patients with less serious conditions will face an extended wait at A&E. They said: “We are seeing very unwell patients who need urgent care, as well as lots of people with problems that other NHS services can help.”
Health board bosses and A&E consultants are urging people who need medical assistance for a “non-urgent problem” to consider alternative options and “choose well” to ease pressure on A&E departments. For the latest health and Covid news, sign up to our newsletter here
READ MORE: Couple appear in court after groundsman dies at luxury country house
READ MORE: Met Office releases its official Christmas snow weather forecast
They say that minor injury units, GPs, pharmacies and contacting the NHS on 111 for advice can be helpful in many instances. NHS guidance on when to go to A&E can be found here.
Emergency department consultant Mayukhmoty Maiti said: “We are extremely busy and likely will be into this weekend as well. We are trying to help all of you, but we really, really ask if you can use other alternatives i.e. your pharmacy, opticians or GP, that will be very helpful for us to provide the right level of care for the patients who need our support at the right time.”
In a social media post Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board added: “Choosing a different service means that you are helping take the pressure off our busy staff, and that you will get seen quicker by a healthcare professional who is experienced in helping with your problem.”