Salford Royal is launching a new initiative called ‘Care by Appointment’ that will apply to patients presenting themselves at the emergency department between 10pm and 6am, with minor injuries.
Instead of waiting overnight, eligible patients may be offered a scheduled return appointment for assessment and treatment the following day. This service will be offered to patients from 19 August.
Laura Wilson, Salford Royal senior manager, urgent and emergency care, said: “Our clinical team will carefully assess each patient’s needs. If your condition is suitable for Care by Appointment you will be given the option to return the next day.
“The new system is designed to reduce overnight waiting times and improve the experience of patients whose conditions are less urgent.”
Key benefits of the new service are:
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Ease overnight pressure at the emergency department ensuring urgent cases are prioritised
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Shorter waiting times for patients
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Improved patient experience
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Care is delivered by the right clinician in the right setting
Patient safety remains the top priority with each case being clinically reviewed to ensure that a short delay in treatment will not affect the patient’s recovery or outcome.
This initiative reflects the Trust’s ongoing commitment to delivering efficient, patient-centred care while ensuring that emergency services are used appropriately.
Patient Choice Remains
Patients who prefer to stay in the emergency department overnight are still welcome to do so. They will be made aware that waiting times may vary, as patients are seen based on clinical urgency.