Public Statement Clarifying Recent Images from the Accident & Emergency Waiting Area

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) is aware of images circulating publicly showing patients lying on the floor in the Accident and Emergency Department (AED) waiting area.

We understand the concern these images may cause and wish to provide context and clarity.

The images were reportedly taken on Saturday during a period of exceptionally high patient volumes at the AED. While seating was available, some patients chose to lie on the floor in an effort to rest while awaiting care. The hospital does not support or encourage patients lying on the floor, and this position has been clearly communicated by hospital leadership.

Upon becoming aware of the matter on the Sunday, the Chief Executive Officer immediately requested that the situation be investigated. This was done promptly, and, as stated by the CEO during the subsequent media briefing, at that time there were no patients lying on the floor. Ensuring sufficient seating for patients is a standard expectation and remains a priority.

Although staff strongly advise against patients lying on the floor, individuals cannot be compelled to use chairs, particularly during extended waiting periods driven by surges in patient presentations. The purpose of the media briefing was to highlight the extreme waiting times being experienced due to unprecedented demand.

The hospital sincerely apologizes for any distress these images may have caused. We ask the public to appreciate that our AED teams – including doctors, nurses, and support staff – have been working continuously under immense pressure to respond to a significant increase in patient demand. Their commitment and dedication to saving lives during this challenging period deserve recognition and gratitude.

As part of ongoing efforts to manage the surge, the backlog of patients waiting to be seen by an A&E doctor has been reduced from more than 60 to fewer than 20, and work continues to reduce this number further. While this figure remains dynamic, as patients arrive continuously, teams remain focused on improving waiting times and ensuring care is delivered based on clinical urgency.

Members of the public are again encouraged, where appropriate, to seek care at polyclinics and urgent care centres, which play an essential role in alleviating pressure on emergency services.

QEH thanks the public for its patience, understanding, and continued support, and urges the community to stand with our healthcare professionals as they work tirelessly to provide care during this demanding period.