Laois hospital issues statement amid high admission rate pressures

Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise has issued a statement to Laois locals, amid increasing numbers of people requiring admission at this time.

The huge volume of people presenting to A&E has left the hospital under immense pressure, asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other healthcare providers.

“Where possible, the management at Portlaoise Hospital is asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist, GP, GP out of hours service, or a local injury unit,” management said in a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

“Unfortunately, patients who are presenting at the ED with non-urgent conditions are experiencing very long waiting times to be seen,” they said.

“Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED. Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency.”

The hospital state that they continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as necessary.

“The Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for their support and understanding,” representatives finished.

This high increase in admissions is reflected across the midlands, with Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore issuing a similar statement this week.

You can visit http://www.hse.ie/injuryunits to find your nearest injury unit and their opening hours. If you require urgent medical attention out of hours, you can visit https://www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-gp-out-of-hours/.