CUH Emergency Department Under Severe Pressure as HSE Urges Use of Alternative Services

• Cork University Hospital's Emergency Department is experiencing exceptionally high levels of activity, prompting health officials to ask the public to consider other care options before attending ED.
• HSE South West advises that only urgent cases should attend Emergency Department at Cork University Hospital.

The HSE South West has issued an urgent appeal to Cork residents to explore alternatives such as GPs, pharmacists, and SouthDoc services, as lengthy wait times are expected for non-urgent cases at CUH. The warning comes as the hospital grapples with a significant surge in emergency department attendances.

Health officials are emphasising that patients arriving at the ED will be seen based on clinical priority, meaning those with non-urgent conditions could face substantial delays. The HSE is particularly highlighting a new regional telehealth service called Urgent Virtual Care (UVC), which allows GPs and paramedics to consult directly with senior emergency medicine specialists who can advise whether ED attendance is necessary.

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

"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."

Jennifer Kearney, Chief Executive Officer, Cork University Hospital: 

"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."

The HSE has outlined six alternative care options for the public to consider before attending the emergency department. These range from self-care at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet for minor ailments, to consulting pharmacists for common illnesses, booking GP appointments, or using local injury units for non-life-threatening injuries like broken bones and burns.

For those needing care when GP surgeries are closed, SouthDoc operates an out-of-hours service accessible by calling 0818 355 999. Local injury units across Cork provide treatment for minor injuries without the lengthy wait times typically experienced in emergency departments. The HSE emphasises that emergency departments and 999/112 services should be reserved for genuine emergencies.

The situation at CUH reflects broader pressures on emergency services during peak periods, with health officials stressing that appropriate use of alternative services not only reduces individual wait times but also ensures critical care remains available for those most in need. Cork residents are encouraged to familiarise themselves with all available healthcare options to make informed decisions about where to seek treatment.

The HSE continues to monitor the situation closely and asks for public cooperation in using emergency services appropriately. Those experiencing genuine medical emergencies are assured they will be prioritised for immediate care.