BELLINGHAM, Wash. — PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center is experiencing record-breaking patient volumes in its Emergency Room as the respiratory virus season intensifies. The hospital is urging the community to consider alternative care options for non-emergency health concerns to help alleviate the strain on ER resources.
According to PeaceHealth, primary care providers can handle most non-urgent medical needs, such as immunizations, allergy management, and routine check-ups. For more urgent but non-life-threatening conditions—like minor burns, sprains, or infections—patients are encouraged to seek priority care instead of the emergency room.
“We want to ensure that our emergency department remains available for those in critical need,” a PeaceHealth spokesperson said. “By utilizing primary and priority care services, the community can help us manage patient flow and provide timely care to those who need it most.”
The hospital reminds residents that emergency care should be reserved for critical conditions, including severe injuries, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or sudden loss of consciousness.
Local healthcare providers and urgent care centers are also stepping up to accommodate increased patient demand. Many offer same-day appointments or extended hours to help those with non-emergency medical issues receive prompt care without overwhelming the ER.
As flu, RSV, and COVID-19 cases continue to rise, PeaceHealth urges community members to take preventive measures, such as getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, and staying home when feeling unwell.
For those unsure about where to seek care, PeaceHealth recommends calling their primary care provider or utilizing online resources to determine the most appropriate healthcare setting.
Article by Bellingham Metro News Editor-in-Chief Fernando Gonzalez
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