Arrowe Park Hospital in Liverpool has decleared a “major incident” and told patients only to attend the emergency department if they have a “genuine emergency”
A “major incident” has been declared at Arrowe Park Hospital following a “cyber security issue” – with patients told to stay away.
The Wirral hospital has told people to only attend the emergency department if they have a genuine emergency, stating that business continuity processes are in place and its focus remains on maintaining patient safety.
“The Trust business continuity processes are in place and our focus remains on maintaining patient safety,” a hospital spokesperson said. “However, this issue is likely to result in longer waits in the emergency department and assessment areas. Please only attend the emergency department if you have a genuine emergency. If it’s not an emergency, please visit 111, use a walk-in centre, an urgent treatment centre, a GP or pharmacist.”
According to one patient last night, a message was announced on the hospital’s overhead speakers which said they are declaring a major incident and non-emergencies should consider going home and coming back tomorrow (Tuesday). It is unclear when the issues will be resolved.
A staff member at the hospital told the Liverpool Echo: “Everything is down. Everything is done electronically so there’s no access to records, results or anything so we are having to do everything manually, which is really difficult. The damage is huge.”
Merseyside Police confirmed they are not investigating the incident. Arrowe Park Hospital has been contacted for comment.
