Retford medical services still 'facing pressures' over staff shortages and illnesses

Bassetlaw District General Hospital in Worksop.

The NHS continues to ‘face pressures’ in Retford due to staff shortages, general winter challenges and seasonal illnesses, a trust has said. A system-wide critical incident was declared across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire health services on January 3, though it was stood down on January 11.

Patients have been asked to make sure they choose the correct NHS service and they’re protected from seasonal illnesses to help reduce the strain on the service. Dr Dave Briggs, medical director at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “We are grateful to everyone who has taken steps to help over the past week, this has meant we have been able to stand down the critical incident.

“We would like to thank our incredible teams across the health and social care sector for their efforts in keeping the public safe. Our NHS and social care staff have worked tirelessly to maintain services.

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“Please continue to support your local NHS by choosing the right services, only attending A&E when it is a genuine emergency and by making sure you stay protected. We would particularly encourage those eligible for MMR, flu and COVID vaccinations to take up the offer of a free vaccinations as these illnesses are circulating.”

GPs and emergency departments continue to see a high number of patients, according to the Sherwood Forest Hospital Trust. However, there has been a reduction in hospital bed admissions and increase in discharges, which has helped with capacity issues.