The Ottawa Hospital changing how ER patients are triaged

The Ottawa Hospital General Campus is seen in this undated file image. (CTV News Ottawa)

The Ottawa Hospital says it is changing the way patients are triaged at its General and Civic campus emergency departments.

The hospital said in a news release on Friday that changes to its triage system are meant to improve overall care and efficiency.

“These changes will help us provide the best care and patient experience possible for those in need of emergency care,” the Ottawa Hospital said.

Patients coming to the emergency department will be triaged into one of four zones, based on their medical needs: resuscitation, green, yellow, or blue.

Once triaged, patients will wait in dedicated spaces throughout the emergency department, depending on the zone in which they are assigned. The hospital says this means patients will spend less time in the main waiting room.

“These changes were made based on an overall review of patient flow throughout the hospital. They will help us improve efficiency in the ED, reduce wait times, support staff and physicians, and provide a better overall patient experience,” the news release said.

“The ED is often the first point of entry for patients into our hospital. By improving patient flow here, we aim to reduce overall wait times and improve access to care throughout the hospital.”

The hospital notes that, in some cases, loved ones who are not designated as essential care partners may be asked to wait in the main waiting room, rather than with the patient, once the changes are implemented. This move is designed to give patients more space in designated waiting areas.

The changes will be in effect starting on Monday, according to a spokesperson.

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