'Surprise' over A&E figures rise at Coventry hospital

[dutchman]

Officials at Coventry's University Hospital have expressed surprise over the increased numbers of people at accident and emergency.

Up to 500 people a day at times have visited the facility over three weeks compared to an average of 450.

University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust said it was surprised by the high sickness level.

The trust appealed for "a few moments of extra thought" by people about whether they need to go to casualty.

It added there was not "anything obvious" and there has not been a cold snap or any snow around.

[pollyanna]

People seem to turn up at A&E for just about anything now - many folks abuse the system purely because it's freely available 24/7

[rebbonk]

I wonder why the "drop in" centres aren't used more readily?

I also know of people going to A&E because they can't get in to see their GP!

[pollyanna]

I don't know anything about drop in centres, but people should think twice before abusing the system.

[rebbonk]

Unfortunately Pollyanna, I don't think that people actually realise that using the system costs money. You only need look at some of the absurd calls to the emergency services to see this.

I would personally favour heavy fines being handed out for abuse, but I do recognise that an "education" program would need to be undertaken first.

[pollyanna]

Agree with everything you say Rebbonk - there's no such thing as a 'free lunch' !!!