Throughout the past three months, the Emergency Departments within Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) have seen a surge in demand. In May, over 15,000 people attended the urgent service, almost 1,000 more than the previous year, while a similar number came in June, another rise of around 600.
Traditionally, Emergency Departments are less busy in the summer months due to a reduction in conditions such as colds and flus, which can sometimes develop into more serious ailments particularly in more elderly and infirm patients. However, this year, partly due to the summery weather, the Trust has seen a rise in the number of broken bones and related trauma, allergic reactions (hay fever) and other sun-related illness and injuries which has led to further demand.
Despite this increase, over the past two months the Trust has achieved 94.9% and in May 94.6% against the four-hour Emergency Department access target, a fantastic achievement.
While the majority of those attending the Emergency Department use the service as intended, the number of individuals attending for non-urgent health matters is increasing, particularly amongst young adults.
Data from the Trust shows a substantial growth of patients attending within the 15 to 30 age range – often referred to as ‘millennials’ – for issues which could be treated elsewhere such as a GP practice, a pharmacy or even at home.
To understand this recent development, health partners across Doncaster and Worksop have launched a new survey to ask for feedback on when local people use medical services. Individuals are also asked what alternative health providers they are aware of and why people use the Emergency Department. Completed questionnaires will be used by the local NHS to inform local service provision and what can be done to improve access for residents.
David Purdue, Deputy Chief Executive and Chief Operating Officer at DBTH, said: “Over the past few months, and throughout the period of warm weather, we have seen increased attendance within our Emergency Departments.
“As you may expect when the sun comes out and it’s nice to be outside, we have seen a rise in broken bones, incidence of hay fever and other related illness and injury, however we are also starting to see an increase in unnecessary attendance.
“To understand why this is happening, we have launched a new survey which is quick and easy to complete and will also help us to improve services in the future. Please take five minutes to complete it and help shape your local NHS.”
The survey, which is just six questions long can be found at https://tinyurl.com/DoncBas