Duke of Edinburgh transferred to NHS heart hospital
THE DUKE of Edinburgh has been transferred to a renowned NHS heart hospital where he is undergoing testing and observation for a pre-existing heart condition.
Philip, who is also being treated for an infection, is said to be “comfortable” after he was transported by ambulance from a private hospital to St Bartholomew’s yesterday, Buckingham Palace said. The development will heighten concerns for the Duke, who will turn 100 in June and has now spent his longest period in hospital – 14 nights.
But members of the Royal family are expected to continue with their official programme of events and meetings this week.
Buckingham Palace said in a statement: “The Duke of Edinburgh was transferred from King Edward VII’s Hospital to St Bartholomew’s Hospital where doctors will continue to treat him for an infection, as well as undertake testing and observation for a preexisting heart condition.
“The Duke remains comfortable and is responding to treatment but is expected to remain in hospital until at least the end of the week.”
Philip was shielded from public view as he left King Edward VII’s hospital in central London, where he had been receiving treatment for an infection.
Umbrellas were held up as he made his way into a waiting ambulance, at the rear of the hospital, and was taken to St Bartholomew’s Hospital in the City of London, near St Paul’s Cathedral.
The Duke was initially admitted nearly two weeks ago on February 16 for a few days as a precautionary measure after feeling unwell. A week later, Buckingham Palace announced the Queen’s consort was being treated for an infection.
Philip is known for his “no fuss” attitude and to not suffer fools gladly, and royal biographer Penny Junor said his demeanour in hospital would be important.
“Let’s hope he’s not resigned, let’s hope he’s not being a good patient because I think that would probably be a bad sign – a cantankerous duke is a healthy one,” she said.
She highlighted how the Queen appeared at ease when she encouraged those who are vaccine hesitant during a video call last week, adding: “She doesn’t look to me like someone who is desperately worried.”