Like many emergency departments across the country these days, Quinte Health is experiencing very high patient volumes, in part due to flu and respiratory activity.
Across the entire Southeast Public Health region, which includes Quinte Health’s four locations, the latest data shows 13.77 per cent of visits to emergency departments over the previous seven days were respiratory related.
That is a little higher than the 11.32 per cent that is the provincial average.
Quinte Health officials say those attending the ED may experience longer than usual wait times, particularly for non-urgent concerns.
For less urgent issues, there are care options other than the emergency department such as family doctors or nurse practitioners, Health Connect Ontario, pharmacists or virtual care options.
Read the statement from Quinte Health below:
Quinte Health is currently experiencing very high patient volumes across its Emergency Departments. Community members visiting the ED may experience longer than usual wait times, particularly for non-urgent concerns.
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, we are here for you, and you will be seen as quickly as possible. For less urgent issues, wait times may be longer, and there are other care options that may be faster and more convenient.
What to Expect When You Come to the ED
-
The sickest and most seriously injured patients are always seen first.
-
Patients with non-urgent health concerns will wait longer.
-
Staff and physicians are working hard to provide safe, timely care to everyone who seeks help.
Know Your Options for Non-Urgent Care
Not every health concern requires a trip to the Emergency Department. Choosing the most appropriate care option can help you get the support you need more quickly and helps keep our Emergency Departments available for those who need urgent or life-saving care. Visit – Know Where to Go.
For health concerns that are not emergencies, individuals may receive quicker support through:
-
Family doctors or nurse practitioners
-
Health Connect Ontario (811) for 24/7 health advice
-
Virtual care options, including – https://virtualcareontario.ca/
Yes, we are seeing a lot of respiratory activity. In case it’s helpful, here is a link to the PH dashboards: https://www.southeastph.ca/resources-and-dashboards/ .
