Butler says measures being taken to prepare Altnagelvin ED for winter pressures

Health Minister Robbie Butler says the Western Health and Social Care Trust is preparing Altnagelvin Hospital’s emergency department for winter pressures. Measures include improving patient flow, reducing avoidable admissions and expanding community and intermediate care. A seven-day discharge lounge has operated since 2023, recording 1,358 attendances between April and August 2026, while further care capacity is planned.