Morriston Hospital in Swansea has been placed under extreme pressure, prompting the declaration of a Business Continuity Incident by the Swansea Bay Health Board. This emergency status, the highest level of escalation, comes in response to what the board described as a “very challenging weekend” with exceptional demand. The health board has urged the public to carefully consider their need before heading to the Accident & Emergency (A&E) department, advising them to explore alternative avenues for care and advice due to prolonged waiting times.
The health board highlighted that the hospital is currently experiencing significant pressure, with a high number of seriously ill patients and individuals with severe injuries requiring admission and treatment, many of whom arrived via ambulance. Although efforts are being made to optimize capacity across all hospital areas and more, extended waits in the emergency department persist. In a social media announcement, the health board emphasised the critical situation, stating, “Please think very carefully before making the journey to the Emergency Department (A&E) and consider if there is an alternative way of getting the advice and care you need.”
Furthermore, the health board outlined specific steps the public can take to alleviate the strain on Morriston Hospital. For minor injuries, individuals are advised to visit the Minor Injury Unit at Neath Port Talbot Hospital or consult a local pharmacist for medication advice. In non-emergency situations, the NHS 111 Wales website or a call to 111 can provide guidance. Additionally, facilitating the discharge of loved ones who are medically cleared to leave can aid in focusing hospital resources on patients requiring ongoing care.
This recent escalation of pressure at Morriston Hospital follows an earlier black alert in April, during which patients encountered significant wait times in the A&E department due to excessive demand. Similar guidance was issued then, suggesting alternative care facilities like minor injuries centres to mitigate strain on the hospital. As the health board urges the public to collaborate in managing the current pressure, individuals are reminded that cases involving chest pains, stroke, or serious injuries must still be directed to the A&E department rather than minor care units.
The ongoing situation at Morriston Hospital underscores the strain faced by healthcare facilities amid rising demand and serves as a reminder of the importance of considering alternative care options where appropriate to ensure timely access to essential medical services.