08/14/2026
*Emergency Department Volumes At High Capacity; Public Asked to Consider ED Alternatives*
Windsor Regional Hospital is seeing higher than normal Emergency Department volumes at this time.
We kindly remind our community that our Emergency Departments are here for urgent and emergency care needs. Emergency Departments see and treat patients based on how sick or injured they are, not on a first come, first served basis. The most serious cases are treated first.
Both EDs at WRH are experiencing higher patient volumes. If your condition is not life-threatening, please check each organization’s Emergency Department Wait Time Clocks before deciding which campus to visit. Please remember these are averages only, and patients with the most urgent needs are always seen first. Visit WRH’s clock here - https://www.wrh.on.ca/EmergencyWaitTimes
In an emergency, always call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.
Alternatives to Hospital Emergency Departments:
It should also be noted, the public has an important role to play in helping to reduce hospital and ambulance wait times. For non-emergency situations, the public can phone 811, go to a walk-in clinic or make an appointment with their family doctor. More information about alternatives to the ED can be found here - https://wrh.on.ca/ED-Alternatives
Virtual Urgent Care may be the right fit if you or a loved one has a medical issue that is NOT life-threatening but requires urgent medical attention and you’re unable to access timely care through a primary care provider. Learn more and book an appointment here - https://www.urgentcareontario.ca/
If you or a loved one require new or additional home care support, please contact Ontario Health atHome (OHAH). You can reach the toll-free Intake and Referral Line at 1-833-515-1234 for information, assessment, and support services.
Patients and families can also visit the Windsor Essex Ontario Health Team online for links to medical assistance as well as primary care and clinic options in our region and beyond - https://www.weoht.ca/i-need-a-family-doctor-or-nurse-practitioner/
If you’re unsure whether you require emergency or urgent care, please visit the Essex-Windsor EMS Make The Right Call web page for helpful information - https://www.countyofessex.ca/emergency-services/ambulance-and-paramedics/make-the-right-call/
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