As winter sets in, NHS Trusts in Bath, Salisbury, and Swindon are experiencing increasing pressure. Salisbury District Hospital has seen a rise in flu and other winter viruses, with patients presenting with serious symptoms, according to Danielle Bagg, deputy divisional medical director for medicine. Similarly, Great Western Hospital in Swindon has been placed on the highest alert level, Opel-4, due to the surge, while Bath’s Royal United Hospital has also reported significant demand.
NHS England has urged the public to use the 111 service for non-urgent issues and to reserve 999 and A&E for life-threatening situations. Samantha Sanger, senior sister at Salisbury District Hospital, who has spent 18 years in the NHS, noted the pressures have been consistent year-round, making winter even more challenging. In the past, the summer months brought some relief, but now the strain is felt constantly, culminating in an overwhelming winter surge.
Ms Sanger emphasised the difficulty of “switching off” during a 12-hour shift, noting the emotional strain that can build over time. Frustration with the system is common, but she stressed the importance of teamwork to cope with the stress. She believes that improving social care would help alleviate some of the pressure, especially as Salisbury District Hospital struggles to discharge patients. Currently, there are about four wards’ worth of patients awaiting social care input.
Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, has made the development of a National Care Service a government priority, with plans to roll it out over the next decade. However, Conservative Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticised the government for lacking a clear plan to address the challenges in social care. He argued that increasing National Insurance contributions would further strain the care sector.
Ms Bagg, the clinical lead for the Acute Medical Unit, reflected on how the hospital has grown busier during her three years there. Despite the challenges, staff have adapted, particularly with the opening of the Same Day Emergency Care Centre, which has allowed 90% of patients to be discharged on the same day, providing some relief. Nevertheless, the pressures remain, as NHS trusts across the country face similar challenges.
Salisbury District Hospital has seen a significant spike in respiratory illnesses, including flu, norovirus, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), adding to the burden. NHS trusts nationwide are reporting an early wave of winter viruses, leaving the question of whether this will ease or escalate through January, traditionally a time of peak pressure for the NHS. Mr Streeting acknowledged that while Labour’s recent actions, such as ending strikes and funding more GPs, have made a positive impact, winter pressures will still be a major challenge.
While NHS staff are working hard to manage the ongoing strain, improving social care and increasing support for hospitals could help ease some of the pressure in the months ahead.
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