Pausing some elective care in Greater Manchester

If you are not contacted by the hospital, please assume your treatment is continuing as planned. There is no need to contact the hospital or your GP practice for this information.

We understand how disappointing this will be for patients who have appointments or procedures affected, especially those who have already waited for some time, and we know people will be worried.

This is a temporary measure, and the aim is to impact the fewest number of patients. The situation will be reviewed on a regular basis so that procedures can resume as soon as possible.

Urgent treatments and cancer operations will continue to be prioritised and hospitals will continue to work together across Greater Manchester to care for patients so that everyone who needs urgent care and treatment, gets it.

Anyone waiting for treatment can find advice and support on the Greater Manchester While You Wait website. Here you will find information and advice on how to manage your physical and mental wellbeing while you wait. You can also find out more on NHS Trafford CCG’s website.

This is a difficult decision and one that has not been taken lightly, but we’ve done it so we can keep people safe, can maintain the very best infection control measures, can make sure we deploy staff to where they’re needed most and can keep looking after people who need urgent and emergency care, including cancer treatment.

We would urge anyone with health concerns to continue to come forward for help and treatment in the usual way, using their local emergency department only for serious illnesses or injuries. A reminder that NHS 111 can help if you have an urgent medical problem and aren’t sure what to do. You can call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.