The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) is reporting that its Emergency Departments continue to experience high levels of patient activity.
CKHA said on Friday that wait times may be longer than normal for some patients as the most critically ill will be seen first.
Hospital officials urge the public to explore other options for care. CKHA urges people to call 911 or visit the emergency department only if they have serious and sudden symptoms, such as not being able to breath, having severe chest pain, having a stroke or stroke symptoms, passing out, chocking, or experiencing uncontrolled bleeding.
Hospital officials said minor symptoms such as pain or rashes can wait for a doctor's appointment.
An online alternative called Health Connect Ontario is also available digitally or by calling 811.
Other minor symptoms such as coughs and colds can be handled by a pharmacist, noted CKHA.
Minor cuts and scrapes can also be self-managed at home.
CKHA previously said overall volumes in the emergency departments (ED) are not extraordinary. However, patients coming to the ED are more sick because they have put off or couldn’t get care during the pandemic.
“We suspect years of delayed care due to the pandemic, caregiver burnout, and admissions related to social issues,” said CKHA.
Those social issues include drug overdoses.