Hospital trusts across Warwickshire and Coventry urge public not avoid seeking emergency treatment

Hospital trusts across Warwickshire and Coventry want to 'assure the public they have put in measures to make hospitals safe' and that people should attend hospital if they need to.

The message comes from the South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust, George Eliot NHS Hospital Trust and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, which are all part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership.

The NHS has launched a new drive to persuade the public to seek the urgent/emergency care and treatment they need after warnings that delays in getting treatment due to Coronavirus pose a long term risk to people’s health.

Glen Burley, chief executive at South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust and George Eliot NHS Hospital Trust said: “I recognise how scary these uncertain and challenging times are for everyone, but I would also like to instil confidence in how we are managing this crisis and the precautions we have put in place to make our sites safe.

"As part of that, I would urge the public that if needed please continue to access our urgent health services and get potentially lifesaving treatment for you and your families.

"There has always been a strong sense of community in Coventry and Warwickshire, but in these times more than ever, I am extremely grateful for the support we are receiving from the public.

"Thank you to everyone who is helping us, and a special thank you to our staff – I am so proud of the commitment, dedication and compassion you all show every day. “

As well as accessing urgent medical care, the Trust would like the public to feel comfortable attending important routine appointments and continue receiving vital NHS care.

Professor Andy Hardy, chief executive of University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust said: "It’s really important that our patients and public know that the NHS in Coventry and Warwickshire is still there for patients without Coronavirus who need urgent and emergency care.

“We have worked hard to make changes to the way we offer our services, so that people can continue to safely access our care, for example, separate entrances in A&E and offering remote outpatients appointments where this is possible across our University Hospital and Rugby sites.

“The public can feel confident that we have taken the necessary precautions to make people safe. I urge people not ignore any health problems that you may have, this could potentially lead to greater problems if they don’t seek our care”.

Hayley Key, from Leamington, visited Warwick Hospital for an antenatal scan and reflected on how she felt safe and calm throughout.

Hayley said: “I visited Warwick Hospital last week for an antenatal scan. A very exciting time for a first time mum - but very scary in the current climate.

"I was nervous beforehand about coming to the hospital, but was reassured by staff.

"They sent out a lot of information with my appointment details and followed up with a phone call the day before checking I was okay to still come in. During my visit, all staff were smiling and said hello as I went to the correct area.

"I had to attend two different parts of the hospital for my check up and everyone I came across was friendly and happy. From the moment I stepped into the hospital I felt safe.

"The staff I dealt with had full PPE and were genuinely happy in their work. I urge all those who are invited for appointments to the hospital to attend.

"The measures put in place are clear to see and it really is a safe place to go”.

Laura Smith, from Rugby, said: “I wanted to say a huge thank you to the staff on the emergency gynecological unit, who took great care of me when I was in desperate pain and at my lowest.

"They were all compassionate, and treated me with dignity. I felt safe in their care and honestly 24 hours later I feel a deep gratitude for their selfless actions taking care of people in their greatest need.

"I cannot fault the care I received. Dr Josh and Doris, absolutely amazing. A big thank you from the bottom of my heart, NHS heroes.”