Significant increase in number of patients at local EDs
Statement on behalf of HSE Dublin and Midlands
Emergency Departments in Hospitals across the HSE Dublin and Midlands Region are experiencing a significant increase in the number of patients presenting for care, including many with viral infections. As a result, patients are facing long wait times for admission to an inpatient bed.
Please note patients attending the Emergency Departments with non-urgent issues are currently facing very long waiting times.
Paul Ridgeway, interim regional clinical director for HSE Dublin and Midlands, said:, “We have been working hard to ensure patients who need emergency care are prioritised while responding to the additional pressures associated with respiratory illness at this time of year.
"Unfortunately, people attending with less serious illness or injury will experience longer waiting times. We are working with our community health services to ensure that those patients who can be treated in alternative services are seen and avoid hospital admission and that a continuous focus remains on patient flow through our hospitals.”
Hospital management are asking people with non-emergency health concerns to consider other healthcare options where possible, including:
• Your local pharmacist
• GP
• Local Injury Unit
• GP out-of-hours service
However, if you or someone you know requires emergency care, do not delay. The Emergency Department will continue to see all urgent cases, and anyone experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke should call 999 or 112 immediately.
In addition, due to the high number of patients with viral illnesses and ongoing infection control requirements, hospital visiting is currently restricted across a number of sites. On some hospital sites and wards, only compassionate visits are permitted. Please check your local hospital at HSE Disruptions for the latest guidance before attending.
HSE Dublin & Midlands would like to thank members of the public for their support in preventing the spread of infection in hospitals, and would request that individuals do not attend a hospital if they have any symptoms of viral illness. Their help is vital to protect patients, staff, and the wider community.
However, if you or someone you know requires emergency care, do not delay. The Emergency Department will continue to see all urgent cases, and anyone experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or stroke should call 999 or 112 immediately.
We appreciate your patience and support during this time. Thank you for helping us ensure that emergency care is available to those who need it most.