Hospitals in NSW experienced “unprecedented” patient demand over winter, figures show, as the nurses’ union calls for more staff.
Data from the Bureau of Health Information reveals 764,410 patient presentations in NSW hospitals between July and September 2019.
NSW Health deputy secretary Susan Pearce says the increase came on the back of the longest flu season in 10 years.
“Patient numbers for the winter quarter are unprecedented – up more than 47,000 on the same period last year – yet our teams have done us proud,” she said in a statement.
NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association general secretary Brett Holmes says more nurses are needed to cope with the increased numbers.
“Year after year, the pressure on emergency departments has continued to build and it’s taking a toll on nurses,” he said in a statement.
“The BHI data show presentations are rising, yet nurses and other hospital staff are simply asked to absorb the increased workloads.”
Australian Associated Press