Hayes said the critical incident allowed the trust to work with partners across Kent and Medway to help discharge patients who were ready to leave hospital and free up capacity.<\/p>\n
“We always plan in the NHS,” she said, but added: “When we get to this particular surge situation, we need to manage that very carefully.”<\/p>\n
She urged people to continue attending planned appointments and operations unless contacted directly by the trust, and said anyone with a genuine emergency should still seek treatment.<\/p>\n
Hayes encouraged people to use NHS 111, pharmacies and GPs, but said: “If you need to come in, you must come in.”<\/p>\n
The trust reviews the situation every two hours. Hayes said it was hoped pressures would ease within 24 to 48 hours.<\/p>\n
The trust previously urged people to visit A&E only if had a life-threatening illness or injury<\/a>, or are collecting someone being discharged.<\/p>\n “We are currently reviewing patients scheduled for planned procedures and appointments,” the spokesperson said.<\/p>\n “Unless you hear from us directly, please assume your procedure or appointment will go ahead.”<\/p>\n The trust said that staff were focused on helping patients most in need.<\/p>\n Declaring a critical incident helped to “keep patients safe by drawing on additional support from our colleagues across the health system”.<\/p>\n Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, external<\/a>, on X, external<\/a>, and on Instagram, external<\/a>. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk, external<\/a> or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.<\/p>\n