Patients at accident and emergency may be asked to return later for non-urgent health problems

Hospital bosses in England want all hospitals to use a digital system to help with too many people in emergency services.

Published 10 June 2026 118 words
SOCIETY A1
Patients at accident and emergency may be asked to return later for non-urgent health problems

People going to the accident and emergency (A&E) department with problems that are not very serious might be asked to come back another time.

This is a new plan from the NHS to stop hospitals from being too full. Some hospitals in England are already using a digital system. This system helps doctors decide who needs to be seen straight away.

If a patient has a minor problem, they might be told to return later that day or the next day. They could also be sent to a local doctor or a pharmacy. This helps A&E staff focus on the patients who need urgent treatment most.

Hospital bosses hope this new plan will make emergency services better for everyone, especially during busy times like winter.

Vocabulary

accident and emergency — The part of a hospital that treats people with serious injuries or sudden illnesses.
non-urgent — Not needing immediate attention or treatment.
digital system — A way of using computers and technology to help manage tasks.
minor problem — A health issue that is not serious or life-threatening.
urgent treatment — Medical care that needs to be given very quickly because someone is in a serious condition.

Discussion Questions

  1. Why might some patients be asked to come back later from the A&E department?
  2. What is the digital system used for?
  3. What is the main goal of this new NHS plan?

Based on an article from The Guardian.

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