Wigan's NHS Trust 'reducing' non-emergency care amid rise in Covid-19 admissions

Reports yesterday claimed that WWL (Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh) and Stockport's NHS Foundation Trust were halting non-emergency routine appointments to focus on the steep rise in admissions of patients with Coronavirus.

WWL's Chief Executive, Silas Nicholls, has today said that all urgent, emergency and cancer care will continue, as will routine appointments for as long as possible. He added that, to ensure the best care for the most seriously ill, the Trust would be "reducing" some of its less urgent services.

Mr Nicholls said: “We are seeing a steep rise in Covid-19 infections across our communities, and with it, increasing demand on services, across all of our hospital and community sites.

“We are continuing to provide care for non-Covid patients and it is vital that anyone with concerns about their health continues to come forward for help and treatment.

“It is no secret that, as infection rates rise, so do hospital admissions, and we are now in a position where we need to put in place some measures to ensure the best possible care for those who need it most, reducing some of our less urgent services.

“All urgent, emergency and cancer care will continue, as will routine appointments and outpatient services as far as possible.

"WWL staff are currently working to contact all patients with scheduled appointments to notify them of cancellations. If you have an appointment at the trust, please attend unless you hear otherwise.

“We know many people who are currently waiting for treatments will be disappointed or worried but, as ever, the health and wellbeing of our patients and staff is our priority.

“It is more important than ever that we adhere to government guidance to help keep ourselves and others safe and reduce the rate of infection by washing your hands, wear a mask, and observe social distancing.

“On behalf of the Trust, I would like to thank our staff and patients for their patience and support, while we continue to serve our local community during this unprecedented and challenging time.”

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