Under Pressure

Dimitris Ilias

LJI Journalist

Hospitals across Quebec, particularly in the greater Montreal area, continue to experience significant pressure in their emergency rooms due to a rise in flu cases. Experts warn that the situation is unlikely to improve in the coming weeks.
Flu Season Worsening
“Historically, from late January to early February, we see a critical increase in the number of people with flu-like symptoms seeking emergency care,” said Frédéric Abergel, Executive Vice-President of Operations and Transformation at Santé Québec.
According to Santé Québec, emergency rooms in areas surrounding Montreal, including Laval, Lanaudière, Laurentides, and Montérégie, reached an average bed occupancy rate of 142% between December 31 and January 13. In Montreal itself, the rate is at 138%, while the provincial average sits at 121%.
The Institut national de santé publique du Québec reports that flu activity remains moderate but is increasing. “Hospitals remain under pressure as we enter the peak of the winter season,” Abergel stated.
A Slightly Better Situation Than Last Year
Despite the ongoing strain, Santé Québec notes some improvements compared to last year. Province-wide, bed occupancy rates have decreased by 5% in the past year, although Montreal has seen a slight 1% increase.
The average emergency room stay on a stretcher in Quebec is now 18.6 hours, an improvement of 1.5 hours from last year.
Abergel attributes some of the hospital congestion in Montreal and the surrounding regions to a growing and aging population. “This affects not only emergency rooms but also in-patient units throughout the hospitals,” he explained.
Addressing Staffing Challenges
While the healthcare system faces budget constraints, efforts are being made to ensure services remain available and wait times are reduced.
“We are working to better allocate human resources, especially for weekends,” said Abergel. “In many locations, staff are being asked to take on shifts during the weekend to help manage patient loads.”
Alternative Care Options for Parc-Extension Residents
Abergel emphasized that it is “never too late” to get vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19. Santé Québec urges residents to consider alternatives to emergency rooms when possible, such as calling Info-Santé (811), visiting a local CLSC, or consulting a family doctor.
For minor illnesses, pharmacists can now provide treatment for flu and COVID-19 symptoms, gastroenteritis, and, in certain cases, urinary tract infections in women and shingles, according to Benoit Morin, President of the Association québécoise des pharmaciens propriétaires.