PUBLIC ADVISORY: Increased Demand in the Accident & Emergency Department

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) is advising the public that the Accident & Emergency Department (AED) is currently experiencing a significant increase in patient numbers.

Over the past 48 hours, the Department has seen a rise in trauma cases, together with an increase in patients presenting with respiratory illnesses. As a result, patients with non-life-threatening conditions may experience longer-than-usual waiting times while our clinical teams prioritize those requiring urgent and emergency care.

Patients who require medical advice or whose condition is not life-threatening are encouraged to consider the following options:

• Contact the QEH Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) at 536-4800 between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. for guidance on the most appropriate care.
• Visit your nearest polyclinic during opening hours or the 24-hour Winston Scott Polyclinic at Jemmotts Lane, St. Michael. You are also urged to consult your private healthcare provider for advice.

Patients with life-threatening or critical conditions will continue to receive immediate care under the AED’s triage system.

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital thanks the public for its patience, understanding, and cooperation as our dedicated teams work to provide safe and timely care to everyone who needs it.