It comes as hospitals record numbers of patients presenting at Emergency Departments.
As the June bank holiday approaches, the HSE encouraging is the public to look at all options available before attending emergency departments to keep the EDs available for those who most urgently need care
This year, hospitals have reported record numbers of patients presenting at Emergency Departments for care and treatment, including a sharp increase in the number of patients who are seen and treated in the ED and then discharged without requiring admission to hospital.
The HSE says many of these patients could have been treated at other healthcare services such as Injury Units, GP and GP out of Hour services and pharmacies.
As always, Emergency Departments will continue to see and treat patients who require urgent and emergency treatment first.
Patients who attend EDs for routine and non-urgent treatment are being advised that they will experience very long waiting times over the coming weekend and into early next week.
The HSE says it regrets this delay and is asking all to help staff through a challenging time for ts services by:
· Considering all healthcare options before attending ED including Injury Units, GP services and pharmacies
· Dialling 999 or 112 for emergency care if there is concern for serious illness or injury
· Continuing to wear face masks and maintaining good hand hygiene practices when attending hospitals
· Abiding by all infection control measures including visiting restrictions in hospitals and hospitals wards
As always, if you or someone else is seriously ill or needs urgent emergency care do not delay going to ED or dialling 999/112 for help.
MIDOC is an appointment-only GP service located in the Laois, Longford, Offaly and Westmeath Areas. This service is for patients who need urgent medical attention that cannot wait to be seen by their usual GP. Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 6pm-8am and Saturday/Sunday/Bank Hols: 24 Hours. Telephone: 1800 302 702 or go to www.midoc.ie for more information.
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