Local emergency rooms busy

Stomach bugs, the flu and falls mean long waits at regional hospitals

KITCHENER — Winter illnesses and injuries are putting a strain on local emergency departments.

Grand River Hospital and St. Mary’s General Hospital are experiencing higher than usual emergency department volumes due mainly to the flu, cold, stomach bugs and falls.

That means patients with less serious needs may have to wait longer to see a doctor, which is why the Kitchener hospitals are advising people to choose health options carefully based on their needs.

“While we absolutely will provide assessment for all patients who come to our emergency departments, our mandate is to care for the most serious and life-threatening situations first,” Dr. Irene Mitrana, who practises at both Grand River and St. Mary’s hospitals, said in a news release.

“For patients with less serious needs, there are many other health options that can support their care.”

Patients with less urgent needs should consider current emergency waits as well as locations and hours for local walk-in clinics.

Both hospitals share current emergency wait times on their websites, along with a listing of walk-in clinics as an alternative.

Go to www.grhosp.on.ca/edwait-times and www.smgh.ca/ ed-wait-times/.

The average patient volume at Grand River is about 180 patients a day. Recently, that’s spiked to more than 200 patients.

Over the last few days, the increase in visits is related to respiratory illnesses and falls.

St. Mary’s usually averages 155 patients a day in the emergency department. The average over the past two weeks is 168, with a higher volume of respiratory and gastro-like symptoms.

Cambridge Memorial Hospital reports the same seasonal pressure on its emergency department.

The hospitals stressed that not all emergency department visits are avoidable.

If it is necessary to seek emergency care, remember to bring your OHIP card or other medical insurance information, and a list or supply of your current medications.

Bring only essential visitors with you.

If you are coming with a child, bring diapers, blankets and comfort items.