Southport and Formby District General Hospital says it is “under pressure” following rapidly rising numbers of new coronavirus cases in the area but the trust has not had to resort to a high-level critical incident mode like other North West healthcare providers, a spokesperson has told OTS News.
Cases in Southport have increased over 500% between the end of November to the end of December, with Sefton now showing the 14th highest number of cases against population density in the whole of the UK.
Dr Kate Clark, Executive Medical Director at Southport and Ormskirk hospitals, said the fast spread of the Covid-19 Omicron variant was creating extra pressure across the whole of the NHS.
“Winter is always a challenging time for our hospitals and this year is no exception.
“Our staff are working hard to maintain emergency care and urgent cancer treatments as well as routine and planned care.
“As we start the New Year, we need patients and their families to help us to help you. We need your support helping us maintain our hospital services and getting us all safely through the winter.”
The hospital is asking for the support of the public in:
- Supporting the return home of patients who have completed their treatment and are ready to leave hospital. This will ensure there are beds available to support the anticipated surge in Covid-19 patients in the New Year
- Consulting the NHS111 website first when you have an urgent health need. It will point you to the most appropriate health care service, which may include A&E
- Getting vaccinated – this remains our strongest defence against Covid-19 and the impact of flu
The hospital is also reminding residents that patient visiting remains open but certain restrictions may be in place.
OTS News on Social Media