Warning that Cork University Hospital's emergency department is experiencing 'surge in activity'

HSE South West is cautioning that the emergency department at CUH is currently experiencing very high levels of activity.

The public are being advised to consider all care options - including GPs, pharmacists and SouthDoc out-of-hours services.

When there is a large volume of ED attendances, patients are prioritised in terms of clinical need and wait times for non-urgent care can be lengthy, HSE South West has said. Patients arriving to the ED will be clinically assessed and seen in order or priority, so those with non-urgent presentations will be waiting a long time and are advised to seek alternative treatments, they added.

HSE South West has also said that GPs can also access Urgent Virtual Care (UVC), a new regional telehealth service which allows GPs and paramedics to consult directly by phone, or by video call, with a senior medical decision-maker in emergency medicine or geriatric medicine. They can advise if you need to attend the ED. 

People who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised.

HSE integrated area manager for Cork South and West Priscilla Lynch said: “Our priority is to protect access to emergency care for those who need it most. We’re asking the public to help us by seeking treatment through other trusted services such as GPs, SouthDoc, pharmacists, and their local injury unit. The new Urgent Virtual Care service is also a vital tool to help GPs assess patients and guide them to the right pathway.” 

Chief executive officer, Cork University Hospital Jennifer Kearney said: “We are currently experiencing a surge in activity at CUH’s emergency department, and it’s vital we reserve our resources for patients with the most critical needs. 

"I urge everyone to pause and consider: ‘Is the ED the right place for my care?’ There are excellent alternatives available - including local GPs, pharmacies, SouthDoc, and injury units that can offer prompt and appropriate support.” 

 Know your options if you need medical treatment:

• Self-care – Have a well-stocked medicine cabinet to help with colds and sore throats 
• Pharmacy – Ask your pharmacist for advice on common minor illnesses 
• GP Surgery – Make an appointment with your GP if you’re feeling unwell 
• Local Injury Unit – For minor injuries, broken bones and burns. See www.hse.ie/injuryunits for more information 
• Out-of-Hours GP – if your GP clinic is closed, call SouthDoc on 0818 355 999 
• ED or 999/112 – For emergencies, please visit your nearest ED