Home / Health / Hospital Hallways Become Patient Rooms Amid Overcrowding Crisis
Hospital Hallways Become Patient Rooms Amid Overcrowding Crisis
6 Mar
Summary
- Kingston General Hospital exceeded capacity, placing patients in hallways.
- CEO cited population growth and complex cases for the unprecedented surge.
- Staff face burnout and moral distress due to severe overcrowding.
Kingston General Hospital is experiencing severe overcrowding, with patient numbers significantly surpassing its 570-bed capacity. This has led to patients being placed in hallways, a situation described as lacking privacy and dignity. The hospital recorded its highest patient admission number last week, with 636 patients.
According to CEO Dr. David Pichora, the surge is a result of multiple factors including population growth, an aging demographic, and the hospital's role as a referral center for complex cases. Seasonal spikes from illnesses like flu and COVID-19 also contribute.
In response to the critical space shortage, KHSC is considering short-term solutions, such as moving administrative offices off-site to free up space for approximately 45 surgical and 11 ICU beds. A new hospital is planned but is at least a decade away.
