MP calls for public to help cut A&E waiting times (From Warrington Guardian)

MP calls for public to help cut A&E waiting times

A WARRINGTON MP has urged the public to help reduce hospital accident and emergency waiting times by seeking advice from chemists or GPs in non-emergency situations.

Responding to news of a significant improvement in waiting times, Helen Southworth, Warrington South MP, said part of the responsibility for the NHS rests with the public, which is guilty of taking up A&E time for non-emergencies.

Warrington Hospital's own A&E department met the Government's target during July, August and September of treating, admitting or discharging 96 per cent of patients within four hours of their arrival. As a reward for their improvement, the department will receive a £100,000 boost to help reduce waiting times further.

Shirley Brady, hospital directorate manager for emergency care, said: "The Government states that by December this year 98 per cent of patients should be seen within four hours and we are well on our way to meeting this with 97 per cent of patients being seen within this target time last week."

But Mrs Southworth called on the public seek advice from helpline NHS Direct or consulting their GP or a chemist rather than going straight to A&E.

She said: "Our health service isn't just the Government's responsibility. We can all help the NHS work better. Every A&E nurse can tell you of spending valuable time on patients who would be better off seeing their GP or chemist. This is because people are understandably confused and concerned by their illness."

She added: "I'll be backing major investment in more doctors and nurses, but if we could just take a little pressure off our local A&E service, it could make a real difference to Warrington Hospital, because the quicker the hospital can provide treatment, the more likely patients are to recover."