Tullamore Hospital warns of 'long wait times' due to rise in numbers attending

The Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore has today said it's under increasing pressure due to a rise in the number of people requiring admission.

A statement on behalf of the hospital this morning (Friday) said it had opened additional beds in order to cope with the extra demand on its capacity and resources.

It also advised the public, if possible, to seek treatment elsewhere in the health service rather than attending the Emergency Department.

"Where possible, the management at Tullamore Hospital is asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist, GP, GP out of hours service, or a local injury unit," said the HSE statement.

"Unfortunately, patients who are presenting at the Emergency Department with non-urgent conditions are experiencing very long waiting times to be seen.

"Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore would urge such patients not to delay attending the Emegency Department.

"Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke - please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency."

For those who may be in a position to attend an injury unit, rather than the Emergency Department, the HSE said noted that the list of injury units, and their opening hours, could be found at: http://www.hse.ie/injuryunits

The Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore apologised for any inconvenience caused and thanked the public for its support and understanding.