The Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise is experiencing a very busy period with a significantly increased number of people requiring admission to the hospital.
Where possible, the management at Portlaoise Hospital is asking patients with non-emergency conditions to seek assistance from other parts of the health service such as their local Pharmacist, GP, GP out of hours service, or a local injury unit.
A spokesperson for the hospital outlined the situation.
They said: “Unfortunately, patients who are presenting at the ED with non-urgent conditions are experiencing very long waiting times to be seen.
“Any patient who needs emergency hospital care will be seen and Portlaoise Hospital would urge such patients not to delay attending the ED.
“Do not delay in seeking medical attention if you suspect you are having a heart attack or stroke, please dial 999 or 112 in an emergency.
“Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise apologises for any inconvenience caused and thanks the public for their support and understanding.”
You can visit www.hse.ie/injuryunits to find your nearest injury unit and their opening hours.
If you require urgent medical attention out of hours, you can visit https://www2.hse.ie/services/find-a-gp-out-of-hours/