The Emergency Department (ED) at the Sudbury Regional Hospital (HRSRH) is bracing for increased demands for its services during the holiday season, said a news release.
“Holidays are usually the busiest time for the Emergency Department, particularly during the Christmas break when at certain times, we are the only show in town,” says Dr. Chris Bourdon, Medical Director of the HRSRH Emergency Department, in a news release. “At this time of year we will often see more than our usual 200 emergency cases per day and that can translate into longer wait times for those with less urgent cases.”
Bourdon says patients in the ED are seen in order of need, not time of arrival. While physicians do their best to see everyone as quickly as possible, some may need to wait.
“We want people to be confident that critically ill patients are seen immediately, with no delay,” said Bourdon.
The HRSRH has launched a public information campaign encouraging people to consider their situation, and determine whether or not they require emergency care before visiting the Emergency Department.
“If the problem is less urgent there may be other options,” states Dr. Bourdon, listing walk-in clinics, local pharmacies and Telehealth Ontario as potential avenues for non-urgent care. Telehealth Ontario is a 24/7 service which can be reached by calling 1-866-797-0000.
“If a person does require emergency care, we encourage them to visit the Emergency Department,” he adds.
The HRSRH ED is one of the busiest in Ontario with 60,000 annual visits. It provides 24-hour emergency services, 7 days a week to more than 650,000 residents in the City of Greater Sudbury and northeastern Ontario.
