READING residents are being urged to use other services where possible as the Royal Berkshire Hospital is seeing high levels of demand.
The Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust posted to social media just before 4pm on Monday, June 12, announcing that the Accident and Emergency department was experiencing high demands.
It reported that at around 3pm that day, the department had more than 390 patients.
In an effort to ensure that those who required emergency medical treatment would receive it, they are encouraging residents to contact the Urgent Care Centre in Broad Street Mall.
Residents can also consult 111.nhs.uk or call 111 to find out which services are best suited to provide the care you need.
The Urgent Care Centre on the first floor of the Broad Street Mall, Reading, is open from 8am-8pm daily.
There are 50 walk in appointments each day for people self-presenting with minor illnesses.
You will be met by staff who will either book an appointment or advise you on the most appropriate care for your ailment.
The UCC cannot deal with seizures, overdose or substance withdrawals, head injuries, dental pain, stoke, light-sensitive headache, or cardiac chest pain.
More information about which services the UCC provides is available via royalberkshire.nhs.uk
The post reads: “Our Emergency Department (A&E) is currently experiencing high demand. At 3pm today we had 393 patients in our Emergency Department.
“We want to ensure that those who need life-saving treatment can get it. For urgent care please use the Reading Urgent Care Centre (located in the Broad Street Mall) or 111.nhs.uk to make sure you’re getting the most appropriate service for you.”
