17 October 2016

People asked to remember that ED is for emergencies

Capital & Coast DHB is reminding the public that the Wellington Regional Hospital Emergency Department (ED) is for emergencies only, and that anyone with non-urgent injuries or illnesses should see their GP in the first instance.

“This is especially relevant between 7am on 18 October and 7am on 20 October, when junior doctors around the country will be on strike action,” said Chief Operating Officer Chris Lowry.

“Around 160 of our RMOs have indicated that, as members of the New Zealand Resident Doctors’ Association (RDA), they will take part in the national strike action.

“This will affect staffing levels and means that people coming into ED will likely experience significantly longer waiting times to see a doctor if they don’t require urgent or emergency care.”

To cope with the effects of the strike, CCDHB will prioritise essential and acute services over others – to date having rescheduled around 170 outpatient appointments, and around 60-70 elective surgeries, and advising patients accordingly.

“Patient safety is our highest priority, and we need to ensure we are able to continue operating our hospital services. People with non-urgent injuries or illnesses should visit their GP first.

“If people need to see a GP after hours there is the Wellington Accident & Urgent Medical Centre in Newtown, the Accident & Medical clinic at Porirua’s Kenepuru Hospital, and Team Medical in Paraparaumu.”

Patients who are uncertain about their scheduled appointments or procedures should wait to be contacted, or call 0508 4 CCDHB (0508 4 22342).

Anyone unsure about whether they need ED care should contact their GP, or call Healthline (0800 611 116) for free advice from a registered nurse.

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