Mercy University Hospital ED Under Severe Pressure, Public Urged to Seek Alternative Care

The Emergency Department at Mercy University Hospital is experiencing exceptionally high activity levels, prompting HSE South West to issue an urgent appeal for the public to consider alternative healthcare options before attending the ED.

Health officials issued the warning this afternoon, advising Cork residents to utilise GP services, pharmacists, and SouthDoc out-of-hours care for non-urgent medical needs. Patients with non-critical conditions attending the Mercy ED face lengthy waiting times as staff prioritise cases based on clinical need.

The warning comes as the hospital continues to manage high attendance numbers in recent days, placing significant pressure on emergency services. Those arriving at the department undergo clinical assessment and are seen in order of priority, meaning patients with minor complaints could face extended waits.

Sonya Cotter, HSE Integrated Area Manager for Cork North and East, said:

"We are working hard to protect access to emergency care at all hospitals for those who need it most. The public can help hospital teams by using 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: please consider this option if your GP recommends it for you."

The HSE highlighted a new regional telehealth service, Urgent Virtual Care (UVC), which allows GPs and paramedics to consult directly with senior medical decision-makers in Emergency Medicine or Geriatric Medicine via phone or video call. This service helps determine whether ED attendance is necessary.

Margaret McKiernan, Chief Executive Officer at Mercy University Hospital, said:

"We have been seeing very high numbers attending at the Emergency Department at MUH recently and we are warning the public that the department has been extremely busy in recent days. Patients are prioritised in terms of clinical need and those with less urgent presentations may find there is a long wait time. We are doing everything possible within the hospital to address this, and we are grateful for the support of HSE South West services outside the hospital."

Health officials recommend several alternatives to ED attendance for non-urgent care. These include self-care for minor ailments, consulting pharmacists for advice on common illnesses, booking GP appointments, and contacting SouthDoc on 0818 355 999 for out-of-hours GP services. Local injury units remain available for minor injuries, broken bones, and burns.

The HSE emphasised that anyone requiring genuine emergency care should continue to attend the ED or call 999/112, where they will be prioritised accordingly.