Technical hitch hits hospital

A MAJOR IT and phone network failure suspended some services at Hillingdon and Mount Vernon Hospitals in west London.

The hospital trust issued a statement yesterday morning (Tuesday) asking patients not to attend A&E unless “absolutely necessary”.

As the Gazette went to press emergencies were being diverted to other hospitals, while nonurgent procedures has been cancelled.

“Part of the phone and IT network are currently down at Hillingdon and Mount Vernon Hospitals,” the statement read.

“To ensure patient safety, the trust has had to suspend nonurgent procedures until we are able to resolve the issue.

“A&E emergencies are currently being diverted to other hospitals.

“People are asked not to attend A&E unless absolutely necessary.

“All outpatient appointments are going ahead as planned.”