Due to current operational pressures, Cornwall’s health and care system is now operating at critical incident level.

On 21st January 2024 Cornwall’s health and care leaders declared a system critical incident.

Hospital bosses made the decision following the sustained pressure experienced by Cornwall’s main hospital and emergency department over the weekend.

Kate Shields, Chief Executive of the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board said: “Clinicians right across the county are working exceptionally hard to provide care based on peoples’ clinical need.

“Please only come to the Emergency Department if you have a life or limb-threatening emergency. Other NHS services are available and we encourage you to use them whenever possible. These include pharmacies, out-of-hours GP services, NHS 111 and our network of minor injury units.

“We urgently need your support to make sure we can see those who are sickest and have the greatest need.”

Patients who come to the Emergency Department and who can be treated elsewhere will be directed to those services.

She continued: “Families, friends and neighbours are urged to help us too by offering to support someone waiting for home care to leave hospital sooner and we would ask them to contact the ward directly if they can help in any way.”

For ‘where is best’ advice to help you access the right health and care services visit: https://cios.icb.nhs.uk/…/where-is-best-for-you-this…/