With respiratory illness season underway, Quinte Health is currently experiencing very high patient volumes across all four 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, please come to the Emergency Department — we are here for you and you will be assessed as quickly as possible.
For less urgent concerns, wait times will be longer, and other care options 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.
- Currently, masks are required in patient-facing areas including emergency departments, clinics, waiting rooms and patient rooms.
For more information about when to visit the Emergency Department, what conditions are best cared for in the ED, and what to expect during your visit, please visit: https://quintehealth.ca/care-service/emergency-department/ .
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
· Pharmacists, who can assess and prescribe for many common conditions
· Virtual care options, including – https://virtualcareontario.ca/
