Local News · Swindon
Great Western Hospital under pressure as patients treated in corridors
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Great Western Hospital is facing significant strain on its emergency services, resulting in patients being treated in temporary areas such as waiting rooms and hallways.
Great Western Hospital has confirmed that it is currently managing very high levels of demand across its urgent and emergency care services. The facility, which serves the Swindon and wider Wiltshire area, has been forced to place some patients in temporary escalation areas, including hallways and waiting rooms, as capacity has reached its limit.
A spokesperson for the Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust stated that while teams are working to treat arrivals as quickly as possible, the high volume of admissions means some patients may experience longer waits than usual. The trust noted that it is prioritising those who are most seriously unwell, which may lead to slower service for others.
The hospital has issued a clear request for the public to help manage this pressure by choosing the right service for their needs. Residents are urged to use the NHS 111 online service in the first instance if they require urgent medical advice or are uncertain where to go for care. This service can direct individuals to more appropriate facilities if hospital treatment is not strictly necessary.
The trust emphasised that 999 should continue to be reserved strictly for life-threatening emergencies. The hospital also issued guidance for families and carers regarding hospital visits and discharges. Patients are encouraged to plan ahead by arranging their own transport for hospital visits and ensuring that any necessary care or support systems are prepared in advance for a patient's discharge. Working with hospital teams in this way is intended to help ensure that patients can leave the hospital safely as soon as they are medically ready to do so.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Lifestyle · View original