Pātiki and Waharua Kōpito patterns
Attributable to Hamish Brown, Health New Zealand Group Director of Operations for Canterbury - Waitaha
Our teams are working hard to improve patient flow and manage wait times at Christchurch Hospital Emergency Department (ED) during a period of high demand.
The ED is always busy at this time of year, but this week has seen a high number of adults and children presenting with a range of injuries and illnesses, including flu.
We never turn away anyone needing hospital-level care Patients are triaged and prioritised based on clinical need, so those with less urgent conditions may experience longer waits. Staff are working hard to provide the best care possible, and we thank those who are waiting for their patience and understanding.
We are working closely across the hospital to support our ED staff and are implementing multiple strategies to improve patient care and hospital flow.
We strongly encourage people who do not require hospital-level care to consider alternative options such as online healthcare providers, community pharmacies, or local GPs.
More information is available at:
- Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Health Information and Services – info.health.nz (external link)
- GP Telehealth Services – Online doctor appointments
- Ka Ora Telecare (rural telehealth) – 0800 252 672
- Healthpoint – healthpoint.co.nz (including Hauora Māori and Pacific health providers and local service hours) (external link)
- Healthline – 0800 611 116
Anyone needing urgent or emergency care should come directly to the ED or call 111. Our ED remains open 24/7, 365 days a year.