Winnipeg emergency departments are struggling with severe patient volumes, leading to over one in four patients leaving without being seen by a physician. Data from Shared Health reveals that major facilities, including Health Sciences Centre, are experiencing significant delays. Officials attribute the issue to patient overload, staffing shortages, and the prioritization of critical cases.
Wait times in several Winnipeg ERs are reportedly close to or exceeding 10 hours. At Health Sciences Centre's adult emergency department, the rate of patients leaving without being seen has more than doubled since 2020, climbing from approximately 11% to over 25%.
A spokesperson for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and Shared Health stated that reducing patients leaving without care is a priority. Efforts are underway to improve patient flow, increase capacity, add healthcare workers, and expand access to community and virtual care options. These measures come amid renewed national concern over patient deaths while awaiting emergency services.