The report shows total Emergency Department (ED) presentations increased by 13 per cent compared to the same period the year before, for 4796 to 5425 patients.

The number of people arriving at the ED with non-urgent (Triage 5) conditions such as small cuts or abrasions increased by 18 per cent, from 364 to 430 patients.

The number of emergency (Triage 2) patients increase from 316 to 422.

Urgent (Triage 3) cases reporting to Griffith Base Hospital also increase from 1750 to 2215 patients in the similar period from the previous year.

Hospital general manager Dr Elizabeth Harford encouraged residents to see their GP for non-urgent medial conditions, so the ED can continue to give priority to people needing emergency care.

“Please consider whether your conditions really is an emergency before you attend the busy department,” she said.

With the winter months just around the corner, people have been advised to go to their GP, local pharmacy or contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222.

Despite the difficulties faced by the hospital they have maintained 100 per cent of urgent patients receiving their surgery within the clinically recommended time frame. 

The record was also maintained despite a rise in elective surgery’s performed from 276 to 288. 

Those who need treatment after hours are encouraged to go to: