Significant delays in Emergency Department

27 November 2009

Significant delays in Emergency Department

Hawke’s Bay Hospital is experiencing significant delays in its Emergency Department due to a high number of admissions to the hospital.

Chief executive Kevin Snee said the public should see a GP or local accident and medical centre for minor illnesses and injuries in the first instance.

In the case of chest pain or acute medical emergency the public should always call an ambulance.

Dr Snee said the hospital was in overload and there would be long delays for anyone with a minor ailment, as patients would always be assessed and triaged according to need.

“We are asking for the public’s help and urge people to access primary care in the first instance unless it is an emergency.”

ENDS

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