Hospital bosses in Liverpool have told people with ‘non-urgent’ medical issues to seek treatment elsewhere.
The warning comes as the city’s Royal hospital faces an increasing bed shortage.
In a bid to alleviate the crisis, some patients are being redirected to other healthcare facilities in the area but those with emergency cases are urged to continue to attend the hospital as normal.
“We are currently experiencing significant and sustained pressures on hospital services,” read a statement.
“Patient safety is and will always remain our first priority.
“We are working together with colleagues in neighbouring hospitals and community care to ensure we can continue to provide high quality and safe patient care during this time.
“If your loved one is ready to be discharged, as they no longer require the specialist care our teams provide, we ask that you prioritise supporting their discharge.
“Please keep our emergency department free for those who really need it. If you have a non-urgent health problem, please consider other services such as walk in centres, GP, pharmacies or NHS 111.”