Welsh Ambulance Service Declares ‘Critical Incident’ Amidst High Demand
The Welsh Ambulance Service is facing a significant challenge as it has declared a “critical incident” due to a surge in demand across the 999 service and prolonged handover delays at hospitals. This decision follows several Welsh health boards reintroducing the use of masks for staff and visitors and implementing restrictions on hospital visits due to a rise in flu cases. Swansea Bay University Health Board reported 20 wards with inpatients affected by influenza, with 53 confirmed cases and 93 exposed contacts.
The ambulance service, which caters to over three million people in Wales, found itself struggling with more than 340 calls waiting to be answered at the time the critical incident was announced on Monday evening. Over 90 ambulances were lined up outside hospitals, with more than half of the Trust’s ambulances waiting for patient handovers, resulting in long waits for some individuals in need of emergency care. The public has been urged to reserve 999 calls for life-threatening situations only.
Stephen Sheldon, head of service, acknowledged the challenges faced by the service, stating that the current situation is not the level of service they aim to provide. He highlighted the rare nature of declaring a critical incident, with the previous instances being in December 2020 and 2023 due to high demand and prolonged ambulance wait times. The service is now implementing additional measures to address the increasing pressure on their resources.
The Welsh Ambulance Service’s declaration of a critical incident mirrors similar pressures faced by healthcare services in England and Scotland. Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust in England recently declared a critical incident due to the high volume of patients requiring urgent hospital care, particularly those with respiratory conditions. Similarly, the Scottish ambulance services were placed on high alert on Christmas Eve due to a surge in respiratory illnesses.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, traditionally one of the busiest nights for emergency services, the Welsh Ambulance Service is calling on the public to use 999 services exclusively for life-threatening emergencies. Sheldon emphasised the importance of utilising alternative healthcare options, such as NHS 111 Wales website symptom checkers, GPs, pharmacists, and minor injuries units for non-life-threatening situations. He commended the hard work of staff and volunteers under challenging circumstances.
The winter season typically brings added pressure on healthcare services, compounded by the increased number of individuals seeking medical treatment in Welsh hospitals. With rising flu cases across Wales, the risk of contracting the virus remains high. Swansea Bay University Health Board’s recent decision to reintroduce mask usage and restrict hospital visits reflects the urgent need to curb the spread of infections within healthcare facilities.
While the Welsh Ambulance Service grapples with the critical incident and heightened demand, healthcare providers are striving to address the mounting challenges to ensure timely and effective care for patients across Wales. The ongoing efforts of frontline healthcare workers are crucial in managing the current crisis and alleviating the strain on emergency services. As the healthcare system braces for increased pressure during the festive season, collaboration between the public and healthcare providers is essential to navigate these unprecedented circumstances.