Hospital introduces strategy to overcome seasonal increase

Health and Care Jersey has announced a series of measures aimed at reducing unnecessary admissions and shortening hospital stays to prevent the General Hospital from becoming overwhelmed this winter. A projected increase in flu and Covid-19 cases is expected to place additional strain on emergency services and hospital bed availability.

To address this challenge, the hospital's emergency department has expanded with new specialized areas. A rapid assessment and treatment zone has been introduced, enabling senior clinicians to evaluate patients arriving by ambulance and complete diagnostic tests within 30 minutes, allowing faster transfers to the appropriate wards.

Another initiative, called Fit2Sit, is designed for patients who do not require a trolley. These patients can be treated in recliner chairs, which helps free up space and accelerates ambulance handovers.

For the first time in Jersey, specialist paramedics are being deployed. They can provide treatment at patients homes, with blood test results processed by the hospital laboratory in under an hour.

A same-day emergency care unit has also opened, allowing patients to receive assessment, treatment, and discharge without an overnight stay. In addition, a discharge to assess service enables patients to return home while care evaluations are conducted.

James Basilio-Mason, head of operational resilience, emphasized: "Extensive planning has gone into this winter strategy, which focuses on improving care for island residents."

Health Minister Deputy Tom Binet highlighted that flu and Covid-19 vaccinations are "essential for preventing severe illness" and urged residents to "only attend the emergency department for genuine emergencies."

Author: Sophia Brooks