Critical Incident in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Ends, Health Services Remain Busy

The critical incident that had been declared for the health and care services in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly was officially stood down on Monday, 29 January. This resolution comes as a result of the concerted efforts of healthcare staff and the support from local residents.

Despite the stand-down, local health and care services continue to face significant pressure. Residents are being encouraged to make informed choices about their healthcare needs. Alternatives to emergency services, such as local pharmacies, GP surgeries, 10 minor injury units, the urgent treatment centre at West Cornwall Hospital, or NHS111 online, are recommended.

Over the past week, health and care staff across the system worked collaboratively to manage the crisis. Their efforts focused on supporting patients to be discharged from hospitals by arranging care packages and offering financial support through personal health budgets. This multi-faceted approach also included avoiding hospital admissions by providing care through virtual wards and community assessment and treatment units.

Local GP surgeries played a pivotal role by providing an additional 2,500 appointments between 23 and 28 January. This increase, funded through the Integrated Care Board, was crucial in alleviating some of the pressures on the system.

Susan Bracefield, the Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board, expressed her gratitude towards the residents for using appropriate services and helping to reduce the strain on emergency departments. While the critical incident has ended, she emphasised that health services are still busy. She urged people to continue using the available network of community services.

Bracefield also acknowledged the patience and understanding of patients and their families during periods of longer waits. She praised the relentless efforts of health and care staff who have worked tirelessly throughout the critical incident and as they continue to navigate through the busy winter period.

The system critical incident, which started on Sunday, 21 January, and concluded on Monday, 29 January, was a response to sustained pressure across health and care services.

For ‘where is best’ advice to help you access the right health and care services visit: https://cios.icb.nhs.uk/help-us/where-is-best-for-you-this-winter/