The emergency department at the Royal Bolton Hospital is currently ‘extremely busy’ with wait times approximately four hours plus.

Accident and Emergency is currently experiencing extremely high levels of activity and patients are asked to only attend with life threatening illnesses or serious injuries.

A spokesperson for Bolton NHS Foundation Trust said: “No matter how busy our Emergency Department is, the most seriously ill and injured patients will always be seen immediately.

“If you choose to visit us and do not need urgent or emergency treatment, you will be safely supported to access an alternative service.

“Choosing the most appropriate place for care allows our ambulance and emergency department staff to concentrate on people whose lives are at risk and can potentially save you a long wait.”

The emergency department deals with life-threatening emergencies such as:

  • Severe chest pains.
  • Difficulty breathing.
  • Bleeding you can’t stop.
  • Possible broken bones.
  • Loss of consciousness.
  • Stroke symptoms.
  • Severe tummy pain or headache.
  • A child who is very unwell.

The emergency department is not an alternative to a GP appointment.

If your GP is closed go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111, which will direct patients to the best local service.

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