With ongoing hot weather resulting in a rise in respiratory conditions like asthma and hayfever, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust (LNWH) which operates Ealing Hospital is asking residents to think before coming into A&E as their first option unless a condition is life threatening.
According to the Trust, 600 people attended Ealing Hospital A&E on Monday (12 May 2023) while over 700 people attended the Trust’s other A&E at Northwick Park in Harrow.
Today (14 June 2023) has also seen the start of a three-day junior doctors strike which the Trust said will put emergency departments under more pressure.
Appealing to the public, Dr Jon Baker, LNWH’s Chief Medical Officer said: “Many of the conditions we’re seeing this week can be treated swiftly and effectively by your local pharmacy or GP. Please help us by using these options as a first port of call unless your condition is life threatening.
“We’re doing everything we can to keep disruption to a minimum, but we are expecting this week to be very challenging and ask patients not to come to hospital unless it’s essential.
“Visit your pharmacy, GP practice or call 111.nhs.uk if you need advice.
“As part of keeping our services safe during the strike, we’ve had to reschedule planned operations and appointments. We’re very sorry if that’s affected you or someone in your family and will rearrange your visit as soon as we can.”