Urgent Update: UHG Emergency Department Faces Long Wait Times

UPDATE: Long wait times are currently impacting the Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway (UHG), as officials confirm a significant increase in patient numbers and a COVID-19 outbreak in one ward. This urgent situation is prompting the hospital to postpone some elective procedures.

As of this afternoon, October 16, 2023, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has announced that urgent, time-sensitive cases will be prioritized amid overwhelming demand. Over the weekend, 377 patients attended the A&E, with 96 patients requiring admission. The hospital reports that all available beds are currently occupied, and efforts are ongoing to discharge patients who are ready to leave.

In their statement, UHG urges those in need of emergency care to come to the Emergency Department, emphasizing that they will be prioritized. However, they also recommend that individuals seek assistance from their GP or an out-of-hours service if feasible.

The current situation is dire, with 64 patients waiting for beds at UHG, making it the second most overcrowded hospital in Ireland today. The most overcrowded facility is University Hospital Limerick, where 97 patients are on trolleys. On a national level, 424 patients are reported to be waiting for beds across the country’s hospitals, highlighting a critical issue within the healthcare system.

Fortunately, Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe reports no patients waiting for beds at this time, offering a stark contrast to the situation at UHG.

As the healthcare system grapples with these challenges, officials are working tirelessly to manage the crisis. Further updates are expected as the situation develops, and patients are advised to stay informed about their scheduled procedures.