University Hospital Galway has reported heavy overcrowding today, with large numbers of people on trolleys in the Emergency Department.
Yesterday over 300 people attended the Emergency Department (ED). As of this morning, there are currently 36 patients in the Emergency Department and a total of 50 patients on trolleys in the ED and at the ward level.
The hospital is implementing all possible measures to improve patient flow and reduce delays in the Emergency Department and is asking the public to consider all available healthcare options before attending.
Everyone who presents will be treated, with priority given to those who are seriously ill or injured. Patients who do not require urgent care, unfortunately, may experience longer waiting times.
Due to the pressures on the site and the lack of bed capacity, the hospital is postponing some elective procedures.
Urgent, time sensitive cases are being prioritised. Patients are being contacted directly if their procedure is being postponed.
“All available beds in the hospital are in use. Patients are facing long waiting times to be admitted from the Emergency Department to a bed on a ward,” a statement from UHG said.
“Every effort is being made to discharge patients who are ready to go home so that beds will become available for patients who need to be admitted, at the earliest opportunity.”
“The hospital acknowledges that these delays are very difficult for patients and their families and apologises for the inconvenience and distress these delays cause.”
UHG is urging people to consider going to their local pharmacy, GP, out of hours GP in the first instance if they become unwell.
“As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.”
