PATIENTS across the region are being asked not to use A&E unless it’s a genuine emergency, after a fire at the Bristol Oncology Centre.

Following the incident on Wednesday night, the region's health system remains under pressure.

Although the Emergency Department at the Bristol Royal Infirmary has now fully reopened, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire’s health care service are still in ‘major incident’ status today.

Measures to increase capacity across the regional system, such as extended opening hours at minor injuries units, remain in place going into the weekend and residents are being urged to do their bit by using the most appropriate service for their needs.

Dr Jonathan Hayes, of Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We’re really grateful to all the NHS staff who have pulled out all the stops in their response to the fire on Wednesday night.

“Thanks to their hard work and dedication we are coping well across our local health system and most importantly, continuing to provide safe and effective services for patients.

“We’re also grateful to members of the public who’ve heeded the call to use services wisely in order to help manage demands on our busy A&E departments.

“With continued pressure across the system, our message remains that if you need care urgently but it’s not an emergency, please consider alternative services such as your local minor injuries unit and dial NHS111 for immediate advice and guidance.”

People can also play their part in measures to regain capacity across the area's health system, by supporting loved ones to leave hospital as soon as they are fit for discharge.

Dr Hayes said: “Prompt discharge is good for patients and frees vital capacity in our busy hospitals so we’re asking people to do everything they can to support loved ones to leave hospital when they’re medically fit to go.

“People should also remember that if loved ones need to be discharged to a residential or care home, they should not expect to be given a choice in where they go.”

To help alleviate the pressure, hours have been extended at Yate Minor Injuries Unit, from May 11 to 13.

On Friday, May 11, it will be open until 10pm.

And on Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13, it will be open 9am to 5pm.

Further updates will be posted on the CCG website at www.bnssgccg.nhs.uk