Patients requiring emergency care may still access A&E using its regular entrance. However, patients should expect some disruptions to service including longer wait times as a result of reduced bed capacity.
As the planned multi-phased project to expand the department continues, the HSA would like to remind the community of the importance of utilising A&E only in a true emergency. All A&E departments use a priority system – called ‘triage’ – where the most seriously ill patients are seen first.
Persons with non-emergency needs such as flu, earache, mild sprains, cuts and colds can visit HSA’s Urgent Care Walk-in Clinic located in the George Town Hospital’s atrium (main entrance). This weekend the clinic will be open on Saturday 8:30 AM – 1:00 PM with no appointments necessary .
A&E will remain open 24 hours a day without interruption to ensure the continuity of patient care.
Reasons to visit Accident & Emergency:
- Loss of consciousness
- Persistent, severe chest pain
- Breathing difficulties
- Severe bleeding
- Severe allergic reactions
- Severe burns or scalds
- Acute confused state and fits that are not stopping