James Paget Hospital declares 'critical incident' amid pressure on A&E
Hospital bosses are urging people with non-urgent problems to avoid the emergency department
Last updated 31st Oct 2023
A Norfolk hospital has declared a 'critical incident' amid major pressure on its A&E.
The James Paget in Gorleston says it is also struggling for bed-space due to high patient demand and is urging people with non-urgent problems to avoid the emergency department.
Critical incident status means the hospital trust can bring in extra measures to make sure it can keep patients safe.
A spokesperson for the hospital wrote: "The James Paget declared a critical incident at 5pm last night, due to an increased number of attendances at our Emergency Department and pressure on our bed capacity."
"We are currently experiencing high demand at our hospital and, as such, would remind people to only attend Accident and Emergency if it is a genuine emergency.
"When needing urgent medical care but it’s not an emergency, visit NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for advice on how to get care at any time of day or night.
"For non-urgent cases, speak to your GP practice or a pharmacist.
"Patients with appointments/procedures at the hospital should still attend as planned, unless they hear from us."