Three more Welsh hospital A&E departments in 'extreme pressure' red alert

Lydia Royce

7 May 2024 at 5:42 am·2-min read

A stock image of amb ulances outside the emergency department at The Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Lalnstrisant -Credit:Chris Fairweather/Huw Evans Agency

The emergency departments at a number of Welsh hospitals are under "extreme pressure" as they warn that patients can expect to wait a "considerable time" if it is not an emergency. The warning has been issued by Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB that covers the Rhondda Cynon Taf, Bridgend and Merthyr Tydfil areas.

The health board has issued a statement that said: "The most seriously injured and ill patients are prioritised. This means that, even if you are there before someone else, if you have a less serious condition, you will face an extended wait."

The hospitals in affected include the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant, Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil and the Princess of Wales Hospital in Bridgend. The health board is urging people to consider alternative treatment options before the emergency department.

A statement from the health board said: "Please be advised that our emergency departments are under extreme pressure. Please only attend our ED if you have an emegency that cannot wait until you can see your GP or other healthcare services such as your pharmacy, dentist, optician.

"You can expect to wait a considerable time if it is not an emergency! Help us help you by using the right service, the right way at the right time.

"If you're unsure of what to do, use the online NHS 111 Wales service. Our staff are working hard to care for as many patients as possible." Join our WhatsApp news community here for the latest breaking news

The health board area is not the only part of Wales struggling with a rise in demand for its emergency services following the bank holiday. On Monday, Betsi Cadwaladr UHB issued a "red alert" as their emergency departments were under "extreme pressure".

A health board spokesperson said: "Our Emergency Departments across North Wales are extremely busy at present and people could face extremely long waits. Our hospitals are under extreme pressure and we would urge people to choose the most appropriate place to access care and support to help avoid any delays."

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