Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare (MAHC) say that emergency dept. visits have risen 17% in the month of May, over the previous year. In June, there were more than 4,100 visits to the two departments.

The MAHC says that with pandemic restrictions easing, people are getting back to their regular lives and engaging in activity and adventure once again. In some cases, people are only now following up to get medical help for care they may have deferred during the pandemic.

They are seeing both scenarios in our Emergency Departments in Bracebridge and Huntsville where volumes are on the rise and wait times are getting longer.

The MAHC says that this is not just another summer in Muskoka - the hospitals are still in the midst of the pandemic, working in a fragile state with strained staffing.

We know that sometimes accidents happen and that’s why the Emergency Department is a 24/7 operation. We also know that how people access care has changed dramatically since the pandemic, and more than ever, different mental wellness services have come on line and virtual care is providing greater options.

They’ve provided tips to help know when it’s appropriate to go to the Emergency Department and when to access primary care or other community-based supports.

'Dr. Simpson’s five tips' for the summer:

1. Make safety a priority by avoiding risky behaviour that can lead to illness or injury, and make a thoughtful plan to avoid an unnecessary trip to the Emergency Department.
2. Consider what is available for care as you plan outings. Ask yourself… Are my prescriptions in order? Are my immunizations up to date? Does my current health support that trip to the cottage I was planning to take?
3. If you are feeling unwell, your first call should be to your primary care provider for their advice or ability to see you, potentially virtually or even by phone.
4. Consider making an appointment at the COVID-19 Clinical Assessment Centrein Bracebridge for any upper-respiratory issue. Any sniffles, cough, COVID-19 or influenza symptoms? You can be seen by a doctor quickly at this clinic – without a trip to the Emergency Department. 
5. Visit mahc.ca/wheretogetcareMuskoka/to educate yourself about the different options for care locally. Information is provided for people who have a local doctor and provides virtual care options to see a physician for those who do not. Resources are provided for mental health and additions. There is even information about when you should go to the Emergency Department and when a visit to your primary care provider is more appropriate. 

These tips will help you help us conserve the Emergency Departments for real emergencies and preserve reasonable wait times this summer.