Four NHS hospital trusts in England have escalated to a critical incident status, the highest alert level, following a severe surge in emergency department admissions. The move comes as services face intense pressure from a wave of winter illnesses.
Surge in Admissions Triggers Highest Alert
The critical incidents were declared by three trusts in Surrey and one in Kent. NHS Surrey Heartlands confirmed the alert covers the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, and Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust. In Kent, the East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust declared an incident specifically at the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital (QEQM).
This alert level is activated when Accident and Emergency departments cannot guarantee the safe delivery of all services. It allows NHS management to implement immediate measures to free up capacity and manage demand.
Winter Viruses and Staff Sickness Exacerbate Crisis
The situation has been driven by a "surge in complex attendances" at A&E, largely attributed to patients suffering from flu, norovirus, and other respiratory viruses. NHS Surrey Heartlands stated the crisis was "exacerbated by increases in flu and norovirus cases and an increase in staff sickness."
They also noted the recent cold weather had impacted more frail patients, leading to a higher number of admissions. East Kent Hospitals reported its sites were at full capacity due to "exceptionally high demand" and a large number of patients with winter illnesses, leaving very limited capacity to admit further patients needing acute care.
Health Officials Urge Public to Use Services Appropriately
Despite the pressures, health leaders have reassured the public that essential services remain open. Dr Charlotte Canniff, Joint Chief Medical Officer for NHS Surrey Heartlands, said teams were working "exceptionally hard" and urged those needing urgent medical help to continue coming forward, though some non-urgent appointments may be affected.
Sarah Hayes of East Kent Hospitals echoed this, thanking staff and the public for their support during a "challenging period." She reiterated vital advice for the public:
- Use 999 for life-threatening emergencies only.
- For other urgent care, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for advice.
The declarations highlight the severe seasonal pressures facing the NHS, with a combination of high infection rates and operational challenges stretching services to their limit.
