Montreal emergency rooms exceed 200% capacity during heat wave
Montreal emergency rooms are overcrowded as extreme heat and staffing gaps strain care See why hospitals are overwhelmed and when to call 811 or a pharmacist instead
Several Montreal emergency rooms are operating at more than twice their intended capacity as extreme heat continues to strain the city’s healthcare system.
Health ministry data shows hospitals including Lakeshore General and the Royal Victoria Hospital are among those facing severe overcrowding. Emergency physician Dr. Greg Clark of the McGill University Health Centre said the problem has persisted for years and has become a recurring challenge throughout the year.
Doctors say the summer heat is bringing in more patients with respiratory and heatrelated illnesses, while vacation season is also making staffing harder. The MUHC said pressures on Quebec emergency departments are being driven by seasonal viruses, trauma cases, heatrelated conditions and staff absences. Health officials are advising residents to stay cool and use alternatives such as InfoSanté 811 or a pharmacist when appropriate.