Zalan

What was the local response to the growing ALC crisis? In October 2008, nine physicians volunteered to form a task force to advocate on behalf of our patients.

What are the effects of ALC patients on the hospital system? Let me explain. In 2004, the Sudbury Regional Hospital had 49 ALC patients. It has been going up ever since.

So, what exactly is an alternate level of care (ALC) patient? John is 82 years old. He lives alone in his home. His son lives in southern Ontario. Most of his friends have died. His eyesight is failing, and he can no longer drive.

According to statistics compiled late last month, the Sudbury Regional Hospital had 17 confirmed or suspected H1N1 patients in isolation. Six of these patients are being treated in our Intensive Care Units (ICU).