Patients urged to consider options before attending Tullamore hospital

Management at the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore is asking patients with non-emergency conditions to consider attending their own GP instead of presenting at the hospital, due to a surge in admissions.

The hospital has opened additional beds to cope with extra demand on capacity and resources as it experiences "a significantly increased number of people" requiring admission with increasing levels of flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses in circulation.

Where possible, the hospital has asked any patient with an non-emergency condition 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.

"Unfortunately, patients who are presenting at the ED in Tullamore Hospital with non-urgent conditions are experiencing very long waiting times to be seen" said a statement from management.

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

The Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for their support and understanding.