Medical center’s patient census seasonally high
Maui Memorial Medical Center said Tuesday afternoon that it is experiencing a seasonally high patient census. The high census is expected for the winter months and the Maui Health Emergency Operations Center team and senior leadership are working around the clock to ensure “we remain nimble and respond to immediate and potential needs,” a news release said.
No patient totals were given in the news release.
But the hospital reported on its website Tuesday that there were 22 COVID-19 patients hospitalized, of which 15 had been vaccinated and 10 also received a booster. Seven patients were unvaccinated.
Two COVID patients were in the ICU, both of them were vaccinated but have not received a booster. One patient was on a ventilator and had been vaccinated but did not receive a booster.
The hospital said its emergency department is very busy, and patients are waiting longer to be seen and to be admitted to the hospital, if required. But officials added that if you or a loved one has an emergency do not hesitate to access the MMMC emergency department. Emergency, critical, lifethreatening care is always available, 24/7, and no one is ever turned away, the news release said.
If non-life-threatening care is needed, such as suspected broken bones, wound care, allergies or flu, Maui Health’s Kula Hospital critical access hospital and emergency room is an option for care. The Kula Hospital ER offers x-ray and laboratory services, and can take care of splinting, suturing, and wound care, as well as administer IV fluids and medications. There is a physician on staff in the ER 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the news release added.
Those who require immediate care for a heart attack or stroke should use the MMMC ER, or call 911 for an ambulance.
As the surge is expected to continue through the winter months, the hospital said “We ask our community to please do your part, mask up when in crowds, wash your hands frequently, stay home if you are sick, and get vaccinated for the flu and COVID.”
For more information, see www.mauihealth.org.