Extreme pressure on NHS Grampian leads to emergency call for off-duty staff to help

NHS Grampian has called on off-duty staff to offer their assistance today as the level of acute cases continues to rise.

In a statement posted at 5pm a spokesperson said: "We are currently facing an extreme level of pressure across our health care system, due to the number of acutely ill patients arriving at hospital and difficulties in discharging patients to community settings.

"We are asking all staff who are not working - and may be on annual leave - but would be available to work, to contact Site and Capacity as soon as possible.

"We appreciate this is a big ask, especially at this time of year, and greatly appreciate any additional support you are able to give.

"Our Emergency Departments at ARI and Dr Gray's in Elgin are extremely busy and long waits are to be expected.

"We know NHS 24 is also busy; please continue to call them with non-emergency issues.

"Help us keep the ED for emergencies.

"Stay safe during the cold snap, look out for your neighbours and make sure your medicine box has all the essentials. "Take care."

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