James Paget University Hospital declares critical incident over demand

James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston, Norfolk, has declared a critical incident due to overwhelming demand and bed shortages. The hospital is urging individuals to attend the Accident and Emergency department only for genuine emergencies. Patients already scheduled for appointments or procedures should continue as planned. The Norfolk and Waveney health and care system is also reportedly experiencing very high demand. Measures to alleviate the pressure include increased community bed capacity, additional at-home support, and utilizing GPs to evaluate patients who do not need hospital treatment.