Kettering A&E experiences huge increase in patient numbers

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The number of patients visiting Kettering General Hospital’s Accident and Emergency Department has increased significantly over the course of the last twelve months.

Figures have revealed that the number of patients has increased by fifteen per day since last year and Dr Angela Dancocks, clinical leader of the A&E department said that the increase has placed considerable pressure on staff.

Dr Dancocks said the increase was due to patients struggling to get an appointment with their GP or dentist; staff are seeing an increasing number of patients with toothache and other dental health problems and several patients are choosing to visit the A&E department for minor ailments, which they would normally see their GP for.

National research suggests that around 40 percent of patients who visit their A&E department could be treated either by their dentist or GP. According to Dr Dancocks, staff at the Kettering A&E department are having to take time off because they are under so much pressure at work.

NHS Northamptonshire is currently conducting research to determine why so many patients are going to A&E instead of going to see their GP or dentist; the results of the study will be used to identify possible changes to the system or address underserved areas to help ease pressure on the department in the future. Staff at the unit are urging patients to try and see their GP or dentist for minor injuries or ailments.

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