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As respiratory illness season gets underway, Quinte Health says it is facing very high patient volumes across all four of its emergency departments, including Belleville and Picton.
myFM has also heard from the Lennox and Addington County General Hospital, whos’ reporting “acuity and volume have spiked, consistently high, over the last two weeks.”
The hospital network warns that people visiting emergency rooms should expect longer-than-usual wait times, especially for non-urgent health concerns. Officials stress that anyone experiencing a medical emergency should still go to the emergency department, where patients are assessed based on the seriousness of their condition.
Quinte Health says the sickest and most seriously injured patients are always treated first, which means those with less urgent issues may wait longer. Staff and physicians continue working to provide safe and timely care during the busy period.
Masks remain required in all patient-facing areas, including emergency departments, clinics, waiting rooms, and patient rooms.
The hospital is also reminding residents that not all health concerns require an emergency room visit. Faster care may be available through family doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, virtual care services, or Health Connect Ontario by calling 811.
Quinte Health thanks the community for its patience and cooperation.
Written by Emily Chatwood
