Patients in Wigan and Leigh have been warned of long waits at A&E unless they have an emergency or life-threatening condition.
Hospital bosses say the emergency department at Royal Albert Edward Infirmary is ‘very busy’.
The Trust which runs the Wigan-based hospital yesterday asked patients only to attend A&E for emergencies and life-threatening conditions.
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Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has today renewed its appeal.
Bosses warned that the A&E department continues to be very busy.
They asked patients to seek the right care via 111, general practitioners, pharmacists and dentists if possible.
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust tweeted on Monday: “Our Emergency Department is currently very busy.
“Please only attend A&E for emergencies and life-threatening conditions.
“There are a number of services that can help you, think 111 first.
“They will help you right away #111First #HelpUsHelpYou”
On Tuesday morning (August 10) they tweeted again.
They wrote: “Our Emergency Department continues to be very busy. If your condition isn’t a medical emergency, you’ll wait longer to be seen.
“Get the right care, at the right time. Think #111First, or contact your GP, Pharmacist, Dentist or A&E only if absolutely necessary!”
Patients in Salford have also been asked to only attend accident and emergency if they have an ‘urgent need’ this afternoon (Tuesday).
Salford Royal NHS Trust wrote in a Facebook post: “Please only attend A&E if your need is urgent.
“We are currently experiencing very high levels of demand and attendance.
“Please help us by getting the right care at the right time, from your GP service, dentist or pharmacy.
“Call NHS111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for advice.”
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