Critical incident declared at University Hospitals Dorset
University Hospitals Dorset has declared a critical incident due to severe and sustained operational pressures across our Trust.
Our emergency departments are under significant pressure and patients are experiencing very long waits.
The number of admissions is exceeding the number of patients being discharged. Declaring a critical incident allows us to take additional steps to maintain safe services for our patients and help us cope with the growing pressures.
Our focus is making sure our patients are safe and that we keep our critical services running. We are working with our system partners within the NHS and social care to assist us with patient flow and safe discharge.
The public can also help us in the following ways:
- Only ever call 999 in the event of a serious or life-threatening emergency
- Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you need urgent medical help and aren't sure what to do
- Being ready to collect your family or loved ones from hospital as soon as they are medically well-enough to leave. Hospital is not the best place to be once someone is ready for discharge.
- Do not come to our Emergency Department with minor injuries, as you will be signposted elsewhere. Minor Injuries Units are available to help with urgent care needs. Visit www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/miu for more information on where they are and when to use them
- Use your local pharmacy if you are able to - they can help with a range of minor health issues including colds, skin problems and earaches.
Elective procedures and outpatients appointments are currently still going ahead but are under constant review. If you have an appointment with us, please attend as planned unless we contact you directly.
We are monitoring this situation very closely and as always, we remain committed to providing the best possible care for our patients. Thank you for your support and understanding at this challenging time.
