AN INFLUX of patients over the festive season has seen Warwick Hospital under ‘extreme pressure’ and even forced to cancel some operations.
The hospital on Lakin Road has seen high numbers of patients since Christmas Eve, with chief executive Glen Burley saying the pressures on urgent care are the worst he’s seen in his 11 years at the hospital.
Some operations have even been cancelled to allow consultants to work in the busy Accident and Emergency department.
The trust is now urging people to think twice before they come to the hospital, and instead use alternatives such as GPs, Minor Injuries Units, pharmacies and call 111 to contact the NHS advice line.
Medical director Dr Charles Ashton said: “Over the last week we have experienced increased demand on hospital and community services, with all hospitals in Coventry and Warwickshire under extreme pressure.
“Our staff are continuing to work extremely hard to provide first class care to patients despite the very busy conditions.
“A small proportion of elective operations which were scheduled for the next few days have been cancelled to allow consultants to support emergency care.
“Patients affected by re-scheduled operations have been notified in advance and therefore we ask that patients continue to attend their appointment unless they are contacted by the trust directly.”
