London hospitals part of new system to reduce A&E waits

Operated by not-for-profit provider PELC, the model is in place at four urgent treatment centres (UTCs) in north-east London, including King George Hospital in Ilford and Queen’s Hospital in Romford.

Seventy per cent of walk-in patients are now being diverted away from emergency departments, easing pressure on overstretched services.

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Steve Rubery, chief executive of PELC, said: "Above all else, we pride ourselves in providing high-quality urgent care for the communities we serve. However, we’re also proud that our fantastic team are playing a key role in easing pressure on A&E departments at our partner hospitals, as well as improving the patient experience."

The UTCs serve as a 'front door' to emergency care, rapidly assessing patients and ensuring only those who truly need A&E are admitted. Others are directed to appropriate care within the UTC, hospital, or community services.

Despite ongoing demand, 80.4 per cent of walk-in patients at the two hospitals were seen within four hours in June. This is above the national average of 75 per cent and the national target of 78 per cent.

Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs both hospitals, is campaigning for £42 million to transform Queen’s emergency department.

Fiona Wheeler, interim chief executive of the trust, said: "Every day, thousands of patients who do not need emergency care attend A&Es across the country, and our hospitals are no different. These patients experience long wait times as our staff first treat those in the greatest need.

"Working closely with PELC helps redirect these patients to other services better placed to meet their needs. This means they get treated quicker and we reduce waits for patients who do need emergency care."