Critical incident declared at GWH

A critical incident has been declared at Great Western Hospital this morning with the Swindon-based hospital now treating 159 COVID-19 patients, with the number of those in intensive care rising.

An increase of 39 Covid patients since last Friday has seen GWH stretched to the limit as pressure on the NHS climbs to alarmingly high levels as the United Kingdom attempts to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The announcement comes as the hospital today made the decision to cancel some non-urgent surgeries after the hospital last week started to cancel non-urgent appointments. The cancellation of surgeries will free up staff and surgery theatres allowing more space for hospital beds. 

Swindon Borough Council tweeted this morning that the rise in COVID cases has put ambulance crews under extreme pressure with many ambulances now having to wait outside Accident and Emergency for long periods before being able to hand over patients. 

As the hospital tries to prevent being overwhelmed by COVID-19, GWH are urging anyone who feels unwell to contact NHS 111. If you have a medical emergency then still dial 999.