Emergency departments across the state continue to see an increase in presentations each month.
Acting Deputy Director General of Clinical Excellence Queensland Professor Keith McNeil said last month alone more than 174,000 people presented to EDs across the state, an increase of 3 per cent compared to the same period last year.
“Every month we continue to see the figures rise, but Queenslanders should be assured that our staff work around the clock to provide care should they, their family or friends need it,” Professor McNeil said.
“It takes a special kind of person to dedicate their lives to saving others – and for that I want to thank each and every one of them.
“On average 5,626 people presented to EDs across the state each and every day.
“In October this year we saw a three and a half per cent increase in presentations compared to the same period last year.
“That is an extra 5,656 people needing medical care in four short weeks.
“We also saw an increase in the number of category two and three presentations with a seven and five per cent increase respectively.”
Professor McNeil said not only are the overall numbers increasing, hospitals are seeing an increase in the number of people requiring hospital admission.
“In October 32 per cent or 56,157 of those people attending EDs were admitted to hospital compared to 31 per cent or 54,211 in September this year.
“These people are so unwell or injured they require ongoing medical treatment or monitoring.
“Our staff work tirelessly to provide appropriate care and treatment to anyone that presents to an emergency department.”
