06.01.2015
Royal Stoke University Hospital, Gloucester Royal Hospital, Cheltenham General Hospital, Scarborough Hospital and Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals are some of those affected, with the Royal Stoke's A&E doors actually locked to prevent any more patients from coming in.
Major incidents are declared at hospitals under exceptional circumstances and allows them to call in extra staff to help relieve the pressure.
According to the Royal Stoke's chief executive Mark Hackett, an outbreak on pneumonia in the area meant around 90 people needed beds.
Additionally, 17 people awaiting surgery at Scarborough Hospital have been told that their procedures may be cancelled.
Affected hospitals have appealed to the public not to come to A&E unless they are in serious need of treatment.
The reports come as new figures show the NHS in England has missed its four-hour A&E waiting time target, with the lowest performance figures in a decade.
Hospitals Around Country Calling In Extra Staff
Ten hospitals in England are facing major incidents due to overflowing patient numbers, it has been reported.Royal Stoke University Hospital, Gloucester Royal Hospital, Cheltenham General Hospital, Scarborough Hospital and Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals are some of those affected, with the Royal Stoke's A&E doors actually locked to prevent any more patients from coming in.
Major incidents are declared at hospitals under exceptional circumstances and allows them to call in extra staff to help relieve the pressure.
According to the Royal Stoke's chief executive Mark Hackett, an outbreak on pneumonia in the area meant around 90 people needed beds.
Additionally, 17 people awaiting surgery at Scarborough Hospital have been told that their procedures may be cancelled.
Affected hospitals have appealed to the public not to come to A&E unless they are in serious need of treatment.
The reports come as new figures show the NHS in England has missed its four-hour A&E waiting time target, with the lowest performance figures in a decade.
Expert Opinion
“The number of hospitals declaring major incidents at this time due to high levels of patient demand is extremely concerning. It is under these conditions that staff are put under increased pressure and mistakes are more likely to be made in the treatment of patients. <br/> <br/>“It is crucial everything possible is done to tackle this issue and ensure that the health and safety of patients is not put at risk. This means ensuring medical staff have the resources available to provide the treatment and care patients require in a timely fashion. <br/> <br/>“Following the provision of care to those that need it and the return to normal service, it is vital these incidents are investigated and scrutinised and any failings identified to ensure an increase in demand in the future does not lead to patients being unable to receive the treatment they require.” <br/> Lisa Jordan - Partner
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