CUH Emergency Department Faces Lengthy Waits as Activity Levels Remain High

Cork University Hospital is urging the public to consider alternative healthcare options before attending the Emergency Department, as the facility continues to experience very high levels of activity with lengthy waiting times for non-urgent cases.

The HSE South West has issued a caution following several days of elevated presentations to the CUH Emergency Department. Whilst anyone with an urgent or emergency care need should attend the ED, officials are asking those with less serious conditions to explore other options including GPs, pharmacists, SouthDoc out-of-hours services, and local injury units.

Staff at the Emergency Department prioritise patients based on clinical need, meaning those arriving with non-urgent presentations may face considerable delays. All patients are clinically assessed upon arrival and seen in order of priority.

Priscilla Lynch, HSE Integrated Area Manager for Cork South and West, said:

"Our team at the CUH is working incredibly hard at the moment to make sure that those in most need of emergency care receive it as quickly as possible. The public can help the hospital team by considering other trusted health services, such as GPs, SouthDoc, pharmacists, and injury units. As always, people who do require emergency care are encouraged to attend EDs where they will be prioritised. The Urgent Virtual Care service is also a vital tool to help GPs assess patients and guide them to the right pathway – please consider this option if your GP recommends it for you. This regional telehealth service 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 you if you need to attend the ED."

Jennifer Kearney, Chief Executive Officer at Cork University Hospital, said:

"The Emergency Department at CUH has been extremely busy in recent days, with very high numbers of people attending. The team will see anyone with a serious medical issue quickly, but anyone with a less urgent presentation should be aware that they may face a long wait time. We are asking the public to help us asking themselves if the ED is the right place for their care. If your GP, pharmacy, SouthDoc or an injury unit could provide support, please consider contacting them – they can all offer prompt and appropriate support."

The HSE has outlined a hierarchy of care options for the public to consider. Self-care with a well-stocked medicine cabinet can address common ailments such as colds and sore throats. Pharmacists can provide advice on minor illnesses, whilst GPs remain the appropriate contact for non-emergency health concerns.

Local injury units can treat minor injuries, broken bones and burns. For out-of-hours care when GP clinics are closed, SouthDoc is available on 0818 355 999. The Emergency Department and 999/112 services should be reserved for genuine emergencies.

The Urgent Virtual Care service offers another pathway, allowing GPs and paramedics to consult with senior medical decision-makers in Emergency Medicine or Geriatric Medicine by phone or video call, helping to determine whether an ED visit is necessary.