Hospital Update: Extremely High Occupancy

January 6, 2026 – Our hospital is currently experiencing extremely high patient volumes. Due to this high occupancy, some patients are being cared for in unconventional spaces, such as alcoves, hallways, and dining rooms.

As of January 6, 2026, we are at 119% occupancy, with 18 patients admitted in the Emergency Department waiting for an inpatient bed and another 31 individuals waiting to be seen.

This level of demand can, unfortunately, result in longer wait times, which is challenging and tiring for everyone. Our team prioritizes care for the sickest patients first to ensure those in urgent need receive timely treatment.

We ask that you please be kind and patient with our staff as they manage multiple demands. Your understanding and support during this extremely busy time are greatly appreciated.

Throughout this period, we continue to focus on providing safe, high-quality care for every patient, even during these exceptionally busy circumstances.

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How the public can help support the Emergency Department (ED):

  1. Limit visitors to only those essential to supporting the patient. Reducing congestion helps our teams focus on providing timely, appropriate care.
  2. Expect longer wait times than usual. Non-urgent patients may use SAH’s Virtual Home Waiting Room to check estimated wait times and wait from home until closer to their expected turn – https://bit.ly/48EJcqE
  3. Patients with non-urgent needs may consider alternatives such as contacting their family doctor, nurse practitioner, or visiting a community walk-in clinic – https://bit.ly/3AeWPNF

 If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 9-1-1 or proceed directly to the Emergency Department. Do not delay care. If you are unsure whether your symptoms are an emergency, you can speak with a Registered Nurse for health-related advice 24/7 by calling Health811. Call 811 or visit https://bit.ly/3NvM2Dg