Strain on P.E.I. health-care system improving but beds still at capacity
Islanders urged to get vaccinated, wash hands, stay home when sick, mask when encouraged or required
Health P.E.I. says some progress has been made in easing the strain on the Island's hospitals and emergency rooms, but it's preparing for an expected spike in flu cases in the coming weeks.
Earlier this month, Health P.E.I. issued a news release saying hospitals and emergency departments were being stretched to their limits as the entire health-care system faced overwhelming demands. Officials said the situation has been exacerbated because all of the province's ERs have more admitted patients stuck waiting for beds than usual.
On Friday, the agency said, in a statement, that all available beds in emergency, acute care and mental health and addiction were still full, but a number of patients had been moved into long-term care or sent home with support thanks to community care partners.
"We are working to maintain this trend so we're able to discharge even more patients from acute care," the statement read.
"We ask Islanders to do their part to stay healthy through vaccination, hand-washing, staying home when sick and masking where it is encouraged or required."
The agency said it continues to work to improve patient flow and bed availability.
Islanders who need to access healthcare outside of a hospital or clinic are advised to call 8-1-1 to speak to a registered nurse or see their local pharmacist for assessment and treatment for common ailments.