HSE South West Advises Only Urgent Cases Should Attend CUH Emergency Department

HSE South West advises that only urgent cases should attend the Emergency Department at CUH, which is currently experiencing very high levels of activity.

Cork Safety Alerts

06 Nov 2026 — 1 min read

Image: D. Ribeiro / Shutterstock.com

HSE South West has advised that the Emergency Department (ED) at CUH is currently experiencing very high levels of activity. In a press release dated 06 November 2026, it said it is advising people to attend the ED if they have an urgent or emergency care need.

For those with a less serious condition, HSE South West advises considering all care options, including Minor Injury Units, their own GP, Pharmacists and SouthDoc out-of-hours GP services.

In the ED, patients are prioritised based on their most urgent care needs. HSE South West said people with less urgent care needs can wait a long time to be seen.

Your GP can also access Urgent Virtual Care (UVC), a regional telehealth service which allows GPs and Paramedics to discuss your situation directly by phone, or by video call, with a senior Physician in Emergency Medicine or Geriatric Medicine. HSE South West said they can advise you if you need to attend the ED.

HSE South West listed six options for those who need medical treatment. These are self-care, with a well-stocked medicine cabinet to help with colds and sore throats; asking your pharmacist for advice on common minor illnesses; and making an appointment with your GP if you are feeling unwell.

The list also includes a Local Injury Unit for minor injuries, broken bones and burns, with more information at www.hse.ie/injuryunits. If your GP clinic is closed, you can call SouthDoc on 0818 355 999. The final option listed is ED or 999/112, and HSE South West said that for emergencies, please visit your nearest ED.

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