South Down MLA expresses concern over Emergency Department waiting times

SDLP Health spokesperson Sinead Bradley MLA has expressed her disappointment that a key health commitment has not been met, as patients are still waiting longer than they should be to be seen at an Emergency Department.

Ms Bradley made the comments after data from the Department of Health shows that just over 50% of targets have been met.

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Speaking to Newry Times, the South Down MLA commented, “The Ministerial target made a commitment that no-one should wait more than four hours to be seen at an Emergency Department.

“The latest set of figures are unacceptable and continue to paint a bleak picture with little sign of improvement.

“Our health service is very clearly in crisis and the solution must be sustained investment and service transformation.

“Our hard-working staff are at breaking point and working under intolerable pressure.

“We must address this crisis for the benefit of staff and patients.

“I welcome the frank statement from Minister Swann and agree with his assessment that the people of Northern Ireland deserve better.

She added, “I look forward to engaging with the Minister, colleagues on the Health Committee and the whole of the Assembly to address this crisis.”

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Posted by NewryTimes News on Feb 4 2020. Filed under Politics. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry