'A&E is for accidents and life threatening situations' - Your Letters: January 25

NHS STAFF ARE BEING LET DOWN

What has happened to the NHS? 

We all know that the staff do a wonderful job but are let down by bad organisation. Let me explain.

Why are so many patients referred to A&E by their GPs for non-emergencies?

In the last six months I have taken the same person to A&E after being seen by her GP and referred to A&E for non-life threatening situations that should have been dealt with by her GP. 

In fact one referral that was made was for a scan!

In years gone by the GP would have assessed the patient and reassured them if they were anxious, and then contacted the appropriate hospital department to make an appointment for the near future. 

The patient would go away with the knowledge that everything was being done. 

Now the patient is thrown into the nightmare at A&E. It is always full and has now become an assessment centre.