April 7, 2017 4.35 pm This story is over 82 months old

Patients urged to think twice before attending short staffed Lincoln A&E

People are being reminded that Lincoln A&E is severely short staffed over the next few days and weeks, impacting the level of service. The United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust, which runs hospitals in the county, has said an internal critical incident has been declared and that the hospital is struggling to fill A&E rotas for the…

People are being reminded that Lincoln A&E is severely short staffed over the next few days and weeks, impacting the level of service.

The United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust, which runs hospitals in the county, has said an internal critical incident has been declared and that the hospital is struggling to fill A&E rotas for the next few days and weeks.

Teams are turning to neighbouring hospitals and NHS Improvements for help bringing in more staff.

Dr Suneil Kapadia, medical director said: “We are working hard to make sure we maintain a safe service for our patients.

“We are putting in steps to change our medical model. This means doctors from other specialities will be asked to support A&E senior decision makers to diagnose and treat medical and surgical patients who come through the doors. We need help from the public too and stay away unless they need emergency health treatment.

“To help ease pressures on A&Es, I urge everyone to think twice before they go to an A&E – if it’s not serious or life threatening, you shouldn’t be there.

“Many illnesses can be better treated by visiting your local pharmacy, calling 111, visiting your local GP, GP out of hours service, or attending a walk in centre or a minor injuries unit.”

ULHT Chief Executive Jan Sobieraj told The Lincolnite earlier this week that he had grave concerns about the A&E department, describing it as “vulnerable”.