Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Appeal as hospitals struggle
NHS Lanarkshire has appealed to families who have relatives in hospital to bring them home if they are no longer receiving treatment.
The health board issued the appeal because its hospitals are“exceptionally busy ”dealing with patients infected with Covid-19.
In a statement on its social media pages, NHS Lanarkshire stated: “all our hospitals are exceptionally busy right now. This means you may need to wait significantly longer than usual.
“Please think carefully before attending.
“We are urging the public to ensure they access the right help at the right time. If it is not an emergency call NHS 24 on 111.
“Many Lanarkshire GP practices are open extra hours during the festive period.
“We recognise that not all families will be in a position to do this, but we are asking families with relatives in hospital who are no longer receiving active treatment to consider bringing them home where appropriate to help ease the pressures on our hospitals.
“Pharmacists across the region are delivering the NHS Pharmacy First Scotland service, which has expanded to cover a wider range of services and conditions.”
Last October, NHS Lanarkshire moved to the highest risk level (black) due to “critical occupancy levels”.
It said that it was facing “relentless” pressures, bed shortages and staff shortages due to sickness, stress and self-isolation.
Scottish Health Secretary Humza Yousaf tweeted: “have spoken to NHS Lanarkshire today and, like others, across the country they’re facing significant pressure.
“Next few weeks will be amongst most difficult our NHS has ever faced.”