HOSPITALS in the county have doubled their critical care beds as they prepare for a surge in coronavirus cases.

East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust said it is ultimately planning to increase its normal critical care capacity five-fold.

The trust runs Conquest Hospital in St Leonards, Eastbourne District General Hospital, Bexhill Hospital and Rye, Winchelsea and District Memorial Hospital.

It said is making the changes to treat those with suspected or confirmed coronavirus in safe environments, away from other patients and where staff can be protected.

To cope with the increased pressure and curb the spread of the virus, the trust has relocated chemotherapy services to cut the risks to cancer patients, suspended home births, cancelled non-urgent operations, started telephone appointments, imposed visiting restrictions, sped up recruitment and hastened the way patients can be discharged safely.

The Trust’s Chief Executive Adrian Bull said: “It is a worrying time for patients, our local communities and members of staff. Life has changed radically for all of us but I want to reassure local people that our plans mean that we are ready to provide health care for the people of East Sussex.

He continued: “The levels of innovation and change we have seen over the last two weeks are astounding. In many areas we have made 12 months’ progress in 12 days. Members of staff are adapting to constant change and challenging many commonly held assumptions. I see colleagues across the organisation working hard to make sure we continue to provide the best care possible for our patients in new and different ways.

“It is important for everyone to help us and play their part in reducing the spread of this virus. Please follow the government’s advice to regularly wash your hands and stay at home. Only go out if essential and when you are out, maintain social distancing.”

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