Public Advisory : Continued Patient Surge In The Accident & Emergency Department

The QEH Accident & Emergency Department continues to experience a significant increase in patients, including persons presenting with respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and influenza, complications associated with Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (CNCDs), and trauma-related injuries.

The Department is also seeing an increase in patients presenting with signs of dehydration, the majority of whom are elderly.

😷 Protect Yourself:  Patients attending the AED are encouraged to wear a mask, particularly if experiencing respiratory symptoms. Persons who may be more vulnerable to respiratory illness should also consider wearing a mask for added protection.

💧 Stay Hydrated: With the hotter-than-usual conditions, members of the public, particularly older persons, are encouraged to drink water regularly and remain adequately hydrated. Families and caregivers are also encouraged to pay close attention to the hydration of elderly relatives during this period.

🚗 Please Collect Discharged Patients Promptly: Families and caregivers are asked to make arrangements to collect relatives promptly once they have been discharged from the AED. Timely collection helps support patient flow and allows the Department to better accommodate patients awaiting care.

⏱️ Patients with non-life-threatening conditions may experience longer-than-usual waiting times as critical and life-threatening cases are prioritised.

For non-emergency medical advice or care:

• ☎️ PALS: 536-4800 | Daily, 7 a.m.–7 p.m.
• 🏥 Visit your nearest polyclinic during operating hours
• 🏥 24-hour clinic: Winston Scott Polyclinic
• 🩺 Consult your private healthcare provider

If your condition is life-threatening or critical, please continue to seek emergency care at the QEH.

The QEH thanks the public for its patience, understanding and cooperation as our healthcare teams continue to manage the increased demand.