NHS Highland posts new warning about service at Raigmore Hospital

Raigmore Hospital is 'very busy' today according to NHS Highland.

In a post on social media this afternoon the health board said: "Raigmore Hospital is very busy today.

"If you need urgent care that is not life-threatening, call NHS 24 on 111.

"NHS 24 will direct you to the most appropriate care, which might be a minor injuries unit, phone or virtual appointment, pharmacy or A&E."

Before Christmas NHS Highland posted a similar warning about waiting times being longer than normal and similarly directing people to other sources of help.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said today that Scotland's hospitals are "almost completely full", with bed occupancy exceeding 95 per cent last week.

She said that staffing of the NHS 24 helpline is to be increased, while health boards will be backed in maximising capacity by opening GP practices on Saturdays.

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