Local care system in highest escalation level amid surge in demand
NHS bosses across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire say they're experiencing high levels of demand
Last updated 13th Mar 2024
Residents in part of the West Country are being urged not to go to hospital unless they absolutely have to.
NHS bosses across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire say they're experiencing high levels of demand - with the service moving to its highest level of escalation this evening (13 March) - also known as OPEL 4.
Health and care services in the area say they are experiencing significant pressures, especially in local A&E departments and hospital wards.
We're told that the NHS and local authorities are working together to manage demand and make sure patients continue to receive safe and effective care.
To help the local NHS with these current levels of demand, you are urged to use the most service for your needs.
You can also help loved ones who are in hospital to return home as soon as they are fit for discharge, which will aid by freeing up vital bed spaces.
GP practices, minor injuries units, pharmacies and NHS111 are all open and available to help with non-emergency conditions.
Dr Joanne Medhurst, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB, said: “Our local hospitals are incredibly busy, with a particularly high number of attendances in our A&E departments.
“We have well-rehearsed plans in place to manage this demand, but we expect the pressures to continue into the weekend. As we head closer to the Easter bank holiday and school holidays, which is a consistently busy time for NHS services, we’re asking the public to help us by using the right services for their needs and using A&E for serious or life-threatening conditions only.
“There is a wide range of alternatives to A&E for non-emergency conditions available in the community, ranging from pharmacists to GPs and minor injuries units and if you need help urgently but aren’t sure where to go, you can also contact NHS 111 for immediate advice and guidance.
“Above all, please remember that if you’re feeling under the weather or have a minor injury, A&E is not necessarily the place for you and you may experience a long wait. In these cases, please contact your GP, visit your minor injury unit or contact NHS 111.
“We’re also asking people who have loved ones in hospital to support them to return home as soon as they are fit for discharge. People recover best when they’re at home or in a familiar environment and it helps to relieve pressure on our busy hospitals.”
If you don't need to attend Accident and Emergency:
- You can access NHS 111 via the phone or online for medical help and advice in a non-life-threatening situation
- You can attend a minor injuries unit or urgent care centre - these include South Bristol Community Hospital, Clevedon and Yate - for minor injuries such as strains, sprains and broken bones
- You can also visit your local pharmacy for confidential, expert advice and treatment for a range of common health conditions
The new Pharmacy First service offers treatment for seven common conditions including sinusitis, sore throats, acute earache, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.