Hawke’s Bay Hospital is busy and people with less serious health concerns are asked to think twice before going to the Emergency Department.

Chief Medical and Dental Officer Dr John Gommans said the hospital was experiencing high demand, and people with less serious health concerns may wait for long periods of time to be seen, as clinician’s prioritised people needing emergency and urgent care.

“Emergency departments are for seriously unwell patients in need of emergency care, and for this reason people with minor injuries and illnesses may wait for some time to be seen,” he said.

Hawke’s Bay Hospital had been experiencing high demand for a number of days and expected the pressure to continue through the week.

The district health board is urging people with less serious health concerns to call Healthline on 0800 611 116, visit their GP, pharmacy or medical centre. For after hours health care people should still call their GP, and their call will be redirected to an after hour’s service.

A full list of GPs and after hour’s services for medical care can be found at: www.ourhealthhb.nz

ENDS

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