Readers share thoughts on rise in 12-hour NHS trolley waits

​​The number of 12-hour trolley waits at the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has increased for a second month in a row.

​​Updated figures show that 930 patients had to wait on trolleys for more than 12 hours after attending emergency departments in January. In December, there were 759 trolley waits that lasted longer than 12 hours, which was an increase of 453 from November.

​​A spokesperson for the York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said that factors impacting flow through its hospitals included high demand, patients presenting with more complex needs, and delays in discharging people who are well enough to leave hospital.

​​“Like hospitals across the country, we are experiencing sustained pressure in our urgent and emergency care services, which can at times lead to an increase in longer trolley waits,” the spokesperson said.

​​They added: “We are sorry for the impact this has on patients and families.

​“We are working closely with our health and care partners to improve patient flow, including supporting earlier discharge, making best use of available beds, and strengthening same-day emergency care.”

​Readers had their say in the comments section of The Press website.

​Teddy Duchamp said: “I wish it had been 12 hours, for me it took 17 hours, and most of that time was spent on a bed in the corridor right next to the doors that people are brought into in A&E.

​“But I was lucky. I saw two dead bodies wheeled by whilst in there. The poor nurses and staff are rushed off their feet.”

​Tiny toes said: “Free care is available, how lucky we all are.

​“Why, oh why, did the powers that be close the rehab units across the city? They alleviated beds in the hospital wards and got people back home faster and safer.”

​Pinza-C55 said: “I thought Labour was going to sort all the NHS problems out?”

​Cricket70 said: “At least you’re getting free health care.”

​Readers also shared their thoughts on social media.

​Commenting on Facebook, one reader said: “I went to Scarborough A&E last week and the staff were amazing.

​“I was in for five hours from arriving, being seen, and going home. I was even offered food and drink – great service.”

​Another reader commented: “I was also seen by A&E doctors two months ago with suspected sepsis following a dental treatment. Once again they were prompt and I was transferred to York within a few hours.

​“All the staff in A&E have been amazing recently. We are very fortunate to have this hospital in [Scarborough] and I for one am extremely grateful.”