Cork University Hospital urging public to avoid Emergency Department due to delays

Cork University Hospital is urging the public to avoid its Emergency Department unless "absolutely necessary" due to an increase in issions over the weekend.

The hospital said the public may experience delays in the Emergency Department and is urging the public to consider other options.

A statement from the hospital said: "Cork University Hospital (CUH) is requesting that of the general public would only attend the Emergency Department if absolutely necessary, as it manages increased emergency presentations to the hospital.

"Due to this increased level of activity and subsequent issions, it is regrettable that some patients may experience a delay in the ED.  All emergency and time-critical care for the sickest patients is being prioritised.

 "Management at CUH would like to remind the general public that they should explore all other options available to them prior to attending the Emergency Department."

Other options include South Doc or GP, Mercy Urgent Care Centre at St Mary’s Health Campus, Gurranabraher, Cork, the Local Injuries Unit at Bantry General Hospital and the Local Injuries Unit at Mallow General Hospital.

The hospital added: "Patient care is paramount in CUH and this situation is being treated as a priority by Hospital Management who have taken steps to address this issue.

"Hospital Management wishes to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all staff during this very busy time."