Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has declared a critical incident due to sustained pressures at Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals, urging public support to manage the crisis.
The Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has taken the unprecedented step of declaring a critical incident at its Basingstoke and Winchester hospitals. This decision comes amidst unprecedented pressures on emergency services, with exceptionally high attendance rates and a surge in admissions that have overwhelmed the system.
The trust has been grappling with a perfect storm of challenges, including a low discharge rate that has severely limited the capacity to admit new patients. This situation has necessitated a coordinated response to adapt services and ensure patient safety.
Understanding the Current Crisis
The critical incident declaration is a formal mechanism that allows the trust to implement additional measures to protect patient safety. It enables the trust to work more closely with system partners to improve discharge processes and direct patients to the most suitable care settings.
The trust has reported extremely high attendance at emergency departments, coupled with a high admission rate and a low discharge rate, for several weeks.
Dr. Nick Ward, deputy chief medical officer for Hampshire Hospitals, emphasized the unusual nature of this declaration. “Declaring a critical incident in early summer is extremely unusual” he stated. “However, it reflects the unprecedented attendance at our Emergency Departments as well as a high number of inpatients.”
Public Support and Alternative Services
To alleviate the pressure on emergency services, the public is urged to seek medical assistance through alternative channels for non-life-threatening conditions. The trust recommends contacting NHS111visiting a GPor utilizing pharmacies or urgent treatment centres for less severe medical needs.
Additionally, the trust is appealing to the public to play an active role in freeing up hospital capacity. “If a friend or loved one is ready to go home, please help by collecting them at the earliest opportunity,” the trust advised. This gesture will enable the hospitals to focus on patients who require urgent care.
Dr. Ward further emphasized the importance of early medical intervention. “Tackling illness early can help avoid a hospital admission,” he noted. “Our ward teams can help with medication or equipment, so if you can, please have the conversation and collect loved ones; this will free up capacity for someone who needs hospital treatment and care.”
Elective Procedures and Appointments
The trust is currently reviewing patients scheduled for elective procedures and appointments. Unless directly contacted by the hospital, patients are advised to attend their scheduled procedures or appointments as planned. This review is part of the trust’s efforts to manage resources effectively during this challenging period.
In conclusion, the declaration of a critical incident by Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust underscores the severe pressures facing the healthcare system. The trust’s call for public support and the utilization of alternative services are crucial steps in managing the crisis and ensuring that those in need of urgent care receive the attention they require.
