You’re being asked to think twice before seeking care at the PRHC.
Officials put out a statement yesterday and are asking people to consider alternative options because of high patient volumes in the Emergency Department and ongoing staff shortages due to COVID-19.
“PRHC, like hospitals across Ontario, is very much still in the midst of the pandemic,” said Dr. Lynn Mikula, EVP, Chief of Staff and Chief Medical Executive at PRHC. “While mandates have lifted in most public spaces, PRHC is not operating in its pre-pandemic state, and in fact a number of key factors continue to converge at the hospital as we grapple with the effects of this sixth wave of COVID-19.”
With very high patient volumes and acuity, and a higher-than-usual number of patients who require isolation protocols to prevent the spread of illness inside the hospital, individuals who come to the ED for care should expect to wait longer than usual to be seen for all but the most acute illnesses and conditions.
All enhanced precautions, including screening at entrances, masking and temporary visiting restrictions continue to be in effect.
If you’re not in an emergency, you’re asked to:
-Individuals who are registered with a family physician/practitioner should seek non-urgent care through their office before coming to the hospital.
-Telehealth Ontario is also available; this is a free, confidential service that you can call at 1-866-797-0000 to get health advice or information 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Assistance is available in more than 300 languages.
(Written by: Jordan Mercier)
