A HOSPITAL in Reading is asking patients to only use the emergency department when absolutely necessary as it is incredibly busy.
The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust has posted to social media to say that it is dealing with high levels of patients and needs to prioritise those in need of the most urgent care.
Residents are encouraged to seek alternatives to their Emergency Department except in the case of serious and life-threatening emergencies.
Those with less serious conditions are encouraged to visit the Urgent Care Centre in Broad Street Mall, or to contact pharmacies, surgeries, or to use the 111 service.
The Royal Berkshire NHS Trust posted to social media shortly after 12.30pm on Monday, January 22, to say: “Our Emergency Department is incredibly busy. We will have to prioritise patients that genuinely need emergency care.
“f your condition is less serious, you can go to the Urgent Care Centre in the Broad Street Mall, Reading, which is open from 8am-8pm or go to 111.nhs.uk, your local pharmacy or GP surgery.
“Please be patient and understanding with our staff who are doing all they can to keep people safe and well looked after.”
