Hospitals in Kingston, Ont. using ‘unconventional space’ to accommodate record number of patients

Main entrance to the Kingston General Hospital. (Kimberley Johnson/CTV News Ottawa)

Patients are being assigned a bed in an “unconventional space” at hospitals in Kingston, Ont. as it deals with a record number of admitted inpatients.

The Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) says it surpassed 630 inpatients at the Kingston General and Hotel Dieu sites last week, well above the 570 beds available.

“Over the past several weeks, KHSC has been operating under extraordinary pressure driven by significant patient volumes, a complex mix of patient needs and a growing regional role,” the hospital said in a statement.

“We are not alone in this. Large academic hospitals across Ontario are experiencing similar pressures.”

The hospital did not say why it was seeing a spike in patients admitted to the hospital for care.

The hospital says if you are visiting the Hotel Dieu and Kingston General sites in the coming weeks, your care may look a little different.

“You may continue to experience longer wait times if you visit our Emergency Department. If you are admitted as an in-patient, you may be assigned to a bed in an unconventional space that has been converted to accommodate patient care,” the hospital said.

“Regardless of where you receive care, please know that you will still receive high-quality clinical support. We know this can be frustrating for patients and families and we appreciate your patience and understanding, which already has been amazing.”

Officials say if you are experiencing a medical emergency, you should still visit the hospital.

“If your concern is less urgent, please consider alternatives such as your primary care provider, walk in clinics, or virtual care services,” the hospital said.

“Thank you for continuing to treat our staff with patience and understanding. They are doing everything they can to provide you with the best care possible, even in less-than-ideal circumstances. We’re all in this together.”

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