Surrey Hospitals Seek Community Support Amid Unprecedented Demand Crisis In response to an overwhelming surge in patient numbers, Surrey Hospitals are urgently requesting public assistance. The healthcare facilities are currently facing a critical situation that requires collective community effort to ensure the well-being of all patients. Your support can make a significant difference during this challenging time.
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Surrey’s healthcare system faces critical incident
Surrey’s healthcare system is currently experiencing significant challenges, prompting Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, along with other local facilities, to declare acritical incident. This troubling situation is primarily due to an overwhelming number of patients arriving at theEmergency Department, combined with a shortage of available beds in inpatient wards.
The declaration aims to proactively safeguard patient care, ensuring that it remains both safe and effective despite these pressing issues.
Understanding the critical incident declaration
Hospitals can enhance service delivery during crises by officially declaring a critical incident. This declaration enables them to mobilize resources and collaborate with local health and social care partners.
Such coordinated efforts are essential for implementing additional measures to manage patient care effectively and relieve the strain on services.
Dr. Mark Roland, Chief Medical Officer, highlighted the significance of this decision. He stated that it allows the hospital to prioritize safe standards of care for all patients.
This proactive approach is vital in a challenging healthcare landscape, ensuring that patient needs are met even in difficult circumstances.
Public assistance is crucial
During this challenging period, the cooperation of the public is essential for the effective functioning of healthcare services. Hospitals are urging individuals to seek alternative healthcare options for non-emergency situations. Community healthcare resources, such aspharmacies,GP practices, andNHS 111services, which are available online and via phone 24/7, should be considered for urgent health inquiries. Utilizing these resources will help free up emergency departments for patients with serious or life-threatening conditions.
Guidelines for accessing healthcare
To support our healthcare system during this critical time, the public is encouraged to follow important guidelines. Only individuals facing severe health emergencies should call999or visit the Emergency Department. If you have a scheduled appointment, please attend as planned unless you have been contacted by hospital staff regarding a rescheduling.
Ensuring timely discharges
Another important aspect is the timely discharge of patients who are medically ready to leave the hospital. Family members are encouraged to assist with this process whenever it is safe to do so, helping to create additional capacity within the hospital. Visitors are reminded to adhere to strictinfection prevention measures, which include maintaining thorough hand hygiene, minimizing movement throughout the hospital, and wearing face masks in designated areas. It is crucial for visitors exhibiting symptoms of respiratory illnesses, such asCOVID-19or the flu, to refrain from visiting.
Maintaining essential services
Dr. Roland has reassured the community that essential services at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals are fully operational, despite ongoing challenges. Staff members are committed to providing care under increasing pressure. He emphasized the importance of judicious use of healthcare resources, particularly in emergency departments, which must prioritize patients in critical need.
For individuals uncertain about where to seek assistance, contactingNHS 111is recommended. This service can guide patients to the most appropriate care options based on their specific circumstances. By seeking timely advice, patients can enhance their recovery and help alleviate the burden on emergency services.
Health advice and preventive measures
In addition to seeking appropriate healthcare, the public can help alleviate pressure on NHS facilities by following preventive health measures. Staying home when unwell, particularly after experiencing symptoms of illnesses like flu ornorovirus, can significantly reduce the spread of infections. Ensuring homes are adequately heated during colder months and checking on the well-being of vulnerable individuals in the community also contribute to
Vaccinations are essential for protecting both individual and community health. The NHS encourages everyone to stay informed about available vaccines and to get vaccinated when eligible. By taking these proactive steps, individuals can play a critical role in supporting the healthcare system and safeguarding their own health.
The declaration of a critical incident underscores the urgent need for community support as Surrey’s hospitals face unprecedented demand. By collaborating and adhering to established guidelines, the public can significantly contribute to maintaining accessible and effective healthcare services for those who need them most.
