More Ramsey patients being transferred

Ashford reveals figures in written answer

An increasing number of patients who turn up to Ramsey Cottage Hospital with minor injuries are being sent to Noble's Hospital for treatment.

The health minister revealed the figures this week in answer to a written question from Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper.

This spring, 7.7% of those who presented at RCH's Minor Injuries Department were transferred to the Accident & Emergency Department at Noble's.

That's up 1.3% on the same period two years ago.

However, minister David Ashford maintained the practice is having only a 'minimal impact' on staff in the Island's main hospital.