The accident and emergency department at the Royal Bolton Hospital is currently experiencing extremely high levels of activity – with patients expected to wait more than four hours.

The hospital staff in the department have stated they are still there for people with life-threatening illnesses but are advising people to choose the most appropriate place for care to reduce pressure.

The accident and emergency department at the Royal Bolton Hospital deals with life-threatening emergencies such as:

  • Severe chest pains
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Bleeding you can’t stop
  • Possible broken bones
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Stroke symptoms
  • Severe tummy pain or headache
  • A child who is very unwell

A spokesperson for Bolton NHS Foundation Trust said: “Our Emergency Department is currently experiencing extremely high levels of activity.

“Waiting time is approximately 4+ hours.

“Choosing the most appropriate place for care allows our ambulance and emergency department staff to concentrate on people whose lives are at risk and can potentially save you a long wait.

“No matter how busy our Emergency Department is, the most seriously ill and injured patients will always be seen immediately.

“If you choose to visit us and do not need urgent or emergency treatment, you will be safely supported to access an alternative service.

“Our Emergency Department is not an alternative to a GP appointment.

“If your GP is closed you can go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111, which will direct you to the best local service.”

Those who have an illness or injury and need medical help outside of normal working hours there are local services available such as pharmacies and out of hours GP services.

The GP out of hours service can be contacted by phoning your own GP surgery and following the instructions on the answering machine.

Alternatively, you can phone BARDOC directly on 0161 763 8940.

There is no longer a walk-in service at Waters Meeting Health Centre.

If you have a story or something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at chloe.wilson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @chloewjourno