Hamilton Health Sciences Home
May 20, 2022

Emergency teams at Hamilton’s hospitals asking public to consider their care options this holiday weekend

Hamilton’s hospitals continue to face significant pressures due to on-going staffing shortages and high patient volumes.

Currently, all of the city’s emergency departments (ED) are struggling to meet demands. Our emergency teams are asking individuals to:

  • Avoid going to the emergency department unless you are experiencing an urgent or severe medical issue
  • Head to www.needadoc.ca to find alternative medical care services available in our community.
    • For medical issues that can’t wait for a family doctor, visit the HHS Urgent Care Centre located at 690 King Street West or the St. Joseph’s Urgent Care Centre located at 2757 King Street East
    • For less urgent concerns, contact your family physician. Many family doctors have after-hours services available.
  • If your symptoms are minor, stay home, rest, and drink plenty of fluids.
  • As always, call 9-1-1 right away if you think you’re having a medical emergency.

The sickest patients are our priority and are treated first in the emergency department. Individuals who seek care for minor concerns should prepare for longer than usual wait times.

Our staff has been under enormous pressure and we ask visitors to show compassion and kindness to all health care workers they encounter.
As a reminder, COVID-19 policies remain in place at Hamilton’s hospitals. Everyone who attends our hospitals must continue to wear a mask.

Please have a safe weekend. Avoid large gatherings and socialize outdoors wherever possible. If you’re sick, please stay home.