Chatham-Kent’s hospital is reporting a steady increase in the number of patient admissions, despite a decline in seasonal and respiratory-related illnesses.
Caen Suni, vice president of clinical programs and operations at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, said admissions from the Emergency Department into the hospital have been increasing by 3 per cent each month.
“While that doesn’t seem like a very significant number, we’re talking about two to three additional patients per day admitted to hospital, which can impact our services,” he said.
In December 2022, Suni said there was a 77 per cent year-over-year increase in the number of admissions for patients with respiratory illnesses, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and COVID-19.
Suni said several surgeries had to be cancelled in November and December due to seasonal illnesses, but the hospital is working with the patients to rebook those surgeries
Fortunately, Suni added that cases of seasonal and respiratory illnesses appear to be on the decline at CKHA.
Between December 2022 and January 2023, Suni said there was a 50 per cent drop in the number of pediatric patients attending the Emergency Department with symptoms of respiratory illnesses, and a 33 per cent drop for adults.
“The trends are pointing towards a decrease, which we’re thankful for as the community bounces back from seasonal illness,” he said.
