A&E patients at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd waited up to 12 HOURS amid staffing crisis

A “short-term” staffing problem forced patients to wait up to 12 hours to be seen at an accident and emergency department.

Medics at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd said they experienced a “high demand in service” on Monday night which sparked waiting times three times longer than the four-hour national target.

One woman, who did not want to be named had an appointment with the out-of-hours doctor and while she was seen within 30 minutes she witnessed other non-urgent cases being turned away due to the backlog.

She said the information screens in the Bodelwyddan hospital displayed estimated waiting times of between 10 and 12 hours.

Speaking to the Daily Post, the woman said: “While people were waiting, someone came out and asked if they could see their own GP in the morning, to do so and go home as they were struggling to cope with the amount of patients.

“This was around 9pm on Monday night. I already had an appointment with the out-of-hours doctor so it was much more efficient for me and I was in and out in 30 minutes.”

“I wish more people would consider this option to save overwhelming the already overstretched A&E department.

Dr Evan Moore, executive medical director at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, expressed his regret over the situation on Monday.

He said: “We apologise for longer waiting times than usual.

“During this period we experienced a high demand in service which led to the longer than usual waits for treatment.

“We’re currently working to resolve a short-term staffing issue which has led to some patients experiencing longer waits in receiving treatment in our emergency department.

“We always prioritise the treatment of patients according to their clinical need.

“This means that, at times, some patients whose needs are less urgent can experience extended waits in our department, despite the best efforts of nursing and medical staff working in these departments.

“Many patients who do not need full emergency hospital treatment may find that they can get appropriate advice and care from other NHS services, including our minor injuries units, local pharmacists or by calling NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47.”