March 1, 2018 11.35 am This story is over 79 months old

Further cancellations across Lincolnshire hospitals due to snow

Further cancellations.

All non-urgent outpatient clinics and operations have been cancelled by United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust on Thursday and Friday.


Mark Brassington, Chief Operating Officer at United Lincolnshire Hospitals Trust, said: “To protect the safety of our patients, today (Thursday, March 1) and tomorrow (Friday, March 2) ULHT is unfortunately cancelling all non-urgent outpatient clinics and operations.

“Many of our staff haven’t been able to get into work due to the adverse weather conditions and we don’t want patients to risk their safety by travelling to one of our hospitals for a routine appointment.

“People who have an outpatient appointment at any of our hospitals today or Friday should not attend unless it is urgent which is for a two week wait appointment, radiotherapy, renal or oncology services. If you are unsure, please call the contact number on your letter for advice.

“People who have an operation scheduled are being contacted if their operation has been cancelled, but we are cancelling all operations that are not emergency surgery.

“We will rearrange all appointments as soon as it is safe to do so.”

ULHT added that outpatient and non-clinical staff are being redeployed to wards and theatres,

They are also using emergency 4x4s to help get staff to work in critical areas. 

Mark Brassington added: “Please stay safe and keep away from hospitals unless it is an emergency. Getting to our hospitals is tricky and the conditions may be treacherous.

“Our A&Es are busy treating very sick patients or patients who are badly injured. To help ease pressures on A&Es, we 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. Call NHS 111 for advice.

“Please consider whether you may be able to self-care your condition through over-the-counter medicine, staying warm, hydrated and through resting.​ You can receive further help and advice on what the best remedy is for you, from your local walk-in pharmacy.

“Alternatively, ring NHS 111 and you will be put through to a Lincolnshire clinician who, if necessary, can book you an appointment at your local GP practice.”