Queensway Carleton Hospital emergency department seeing high patient volumes

Wait times at Queensway Carleton Hospital's (QCH) emergency department are increasing as it reports patient volumes higher than what was typical before the pandemic.

QCH says it saw 274 patients on July 15, compared to 255 patients on the same day in 2019, and that was considered high at that time. The hospital normally sees about 224 patients per day this time of the year when not in a pandemic. 

“We know this is frustrating for you, for your loved ones, and for our team,” say hospital officials regarding current wait times.

On July 16, CHEO said its emergency department was treating an abnormally high number of non-COVID-19 infections in kids from across the region. Officials at the hospital explained that the problem was being compounded by the typical amount of summer time accidents and a surge in demand for mental health care.

Anyone in need of emergency care is asked to visit the department. QCH is also reminding residents of other resources in the city for non-emergent care.

General health concern? Call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.

Urgent medication refills? Call your pharmacy.

Mental Health support? Call the Distress Centre of Ottawa at 613-238-3311 or Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.

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— Queensway Carleton Hospital and Foundation (@QCHOttawa) July 23, 2021

Anyone experiencing a life-threatening condition or critical injury is urged to call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.