Emergency Department

We try to see patients in time order, but patients who are more critically ill or injured may be seen before you. We are often very busy on evenings, weekends and during winter. During these times, if your condition is not life-threatening, it is common to wait a few hours for treatment.

It may not always look busy in the waiting area. A lot of the medical help we give happens away from where you are waiting. When we have patients who are seriously ill or injured, and who may have arrived by ambulance, you won’t be able to see that we are busy.

We know that waiting is horrible, especially if you are worried, in pain or unwell. We will give you pain relief as soon as possible and see you as soon as we can.

Refreshments are available from vending machines in our hospitals. However, you may want to bring a bottle of water, snack and warm clothing with you if you have time to do this.