Quinte Health Care (QHC) hospitals emergency departments are experiencing considerable staffing shortages which significantly impacts QHC emergency department wait times, particularly for those experiencing non-emergency health issues.  

QHC are asking individuals that are feeling unwell to please refer to the infographic photo attached to determine if the Emergency Department is the correct place to receive care based on the symptoms you are experiencing. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms on the attached photo, please do proceed to the nearest emergency department.

Those in need of non-emergency medical assistance, are asked to consider the following options:

• contact your primary care provider, 
• visit Health Connect Ontario (or call 811), 
• visit a local walk-in clinic, or 
• contact your pharmacist if you require urgent medication refills.

Everyone is reminded that patients are cared for in the Emergency Department based on how sick or injured they are, not when they arrived. The wait time varies depending on how serious the conditions are of other patients coming into the emergency room. Those with non-urgent issues will experience a longer wait and QHC recommends they come with reading material or a device to help pass the time.

“We understand that patients waiting can feel terrible and uncomfortable,” Catherine Walker, Director, Communications and Organizational Development stated in a media release. “We ask for everyone’s patience and for your continued support and respect for our teams.”

For more information about these options and other information related to QHC Emergency Departments, please visit: https://www.qhc.on.ca/emergency-department-c68.php .