Ambulances diverted from Craigavon area hospital for the second time in 24 hours

By Q Radio News

For the second time in less than 24 hours ambulances have had to be diverted away from Craigavon area hospital because of unprecedented demands.

Last night ambulances had to be turned away except in life-threatening situations because of winter pressures and the Covid pandemic.

Now a similar move has been introduced today and staff are said to be exhausted.

Tom Black from the British Medical Association says he's been warning of this type of crisis for months.

(Dr Tom Black)

Other trusts said they would support Craigavon but it would increase pressure on their own already busy emergency departments.

The British Medical Association is calling the situation extremely worrying, says the winter surge has started early, with Covid a factor, and is warning things will only get worse over the coming months. 

UPDATE

Top doc warns decision to divert ambulances away from Craigavon hospital tonight "is only the start of it" in NI. Tom Black "It will get worse. Doctors extremely concerned about what lies ahead & the pressure they're facing is unsustainable"

BMA👇

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