News that Islanders will benefit from shorter waiting times at the Emergency Department at St Mary’s Hospital has been welcomed by local MP Bob Seely.
The new enhanced ‘NHS 111 First’ service – due to be launched today (Tuesday) – will offer patients booked arrival slots with the aim of improving safety by reducing crowded waiting areas, reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission and reducing waiting times.
The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has said very little about the revised way of working but it is known that those with a genuine emergency can still call 999 and attend the Emergency Department. For those needed urgent, but not immediate attention, are being told to call 111 first where they will be given an appointment time to attend the Urgent Treatment Centre or the Emergency Department.
This new approach is being described as a more convenient way for the Island community to access urgent NHS care, whilst minimising the risk of infection and ensuring patients continue to receive the best possible care safely and in the most appropriate setting for their needs.
Mr Seely said:
“I welcome the introduction of the new NHS 111 First service which seeks to bring about positive change to how people access NHS services.
“Islanders using this service will benefit from reduced waiting times but will also be able to access healthcare in a safer environment.
“This improved service will add to some of the other pioneering work the IOW NHS Trust is doing to improve patient experiences by getting people access to the right healthcare professionals, at the right time, in the most convenient and cost-effective way.
Article continues below this advertisement “I look forward to receiving feedback from Islanders as the new service is rolled out.”
