PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center is asking patients with non-emergency health issues to visit their primary care physician or an urgent care clinic as the hospital experiences an “unprecedented” number of patients in its emergency department.
PeaceHealth has experienced a significant surge in patient volumes due to rising cases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza alongside other emergent health needs, a news release stated. The hospital asked those who don’t have a health emergency to use alternatives to the emergency department to get the care they need.
In the Nov. 18 release, PeaceHealth Southwest Emergency Services Medical Director Jason Hanley stated it is likely the height of flu and RSV seasons.
“Please know that we treat everyone who visits our emergency department, but those with non-emergency needs will most likely have a longer wait time before we are able to care for you,” Hanley said.
Hanley encourages anyone with difficulty breathing or challenges getting enough oxygen to come to the emergency department for an evaluation, the release stated. He adds that for other flu or respiratory virus symptoms, like body aches and coughing, self-care or a visit to a primary care physician may be a more suitable option.
PeaceHealth’s emergency department is open 24 hours a day to provide immediate care for those experiencing life-threatening or emergent medical issues, the release stated.
