Westmead emergency records presentations drop during Game of Thrones finale

One of New South Wales’ busiest emergency departments has recorded a dip in patient presentations around the same time of the Game of Thrones finale on Monday night.

The finale was watched by a record-breaking 17.4 million viewers globally and the series is considered one of the most popular shows ever made.

In Australia, the finale was watched by Foxtel’s largest ever audience for a single show in subscription TV history, with 1.076 million viewers.

Around the time the finale aired in Australia, Westmead Hospital’s emergency department noted a drop in presentations from 8pm, the likely time many Australian viewers would have been tuning in for the show.

Emergency department director Dr Matthew Vukasovic said presentations dropped by half compared to the previous week.

“We had almost double the presentations on the previous Monday,” Dr Vukasovic said.

“There is also an obvious dip in presentations around the 8pm mark compared to the rest of the day.

“Given the fanfare around this show, the decreased activity could be linked to a quieter night for our staff.”

Dr Vukasovic reminded the community that although Game of Thrones is over, winter is still coming.

“The flu season is around the corner, so please avoid a trip to the emergency department with a dangerous flu by getting your flu jab,” Dr Vukasovic said.

“Now is a good time to get your jab so be like the Jon Snow, take the plunge and get it done.”

The community is reminded that emergency departments are for emergencies only. For minor injury or illness, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 anytime for free health information and advice, or visit your GP or pharmacist.