Public warned of 'very long' wait times in St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny

Patients attending St Luke's Hospital in Kilkenny are being warned they may experience very long wait times in their AMAU/ Emergency Department. 

However, as always staff will prioritise the sickest patients and most urgent cases for treatment and care. 

Like all Emergency Departments across the country St Luke’s Hospital’s Emergency Department is extremely busy with high numbers of patients attending, many of are presenting with Covid-19 and complex needs requiring admission. 

The HSE is urging members of the public to consider all available care options before attending the AMAU/ Emergency Department. There are a range of care pathways available to patients who do not need emergency care including Pharmacists, GP,  and GP Out of Hours Services

Within the AMAU and Emergency Departments patients will be prioritised based on their clinical need.

"We therefore urge all patients where appropriate to consult with their GP prior to attending an Emergency Department. In an emergency situation, Emergency Departments continue to deal with all medical emergencies," said the Ireland East Hospital Group.

"Hospital management would like to thank the public for their support and understanding during this period."