(WWJ) Beaumont Health is alerting patients that emergency rooms at all ten of its hospitals in metro Detroit are nearly full.
In a notice released Wednesday afternoon, officials say Beaumont's emergency departments are experiencing "extreme numbers" of patients seeking medical attention. The health system is encouraging patients to consider all options for treatment and evaluation, such as going to urgent care when appropriate.
"If you think you may have a minor issue, you might want to seek other care, such as even calling your own doctor or an urgent care," said Troy Beaumont ER Dr. David Donaldson, at a news conference. "But if you by any means think that you have an emergency, you know we're there to serve you."
Administrators say while some of the patients are seeking care for COVID-19, the overwhelming majority have other medical conditions and concerns.
In addition to the emergency room issues, Beaumont has closed about 180 beds because of a lack of staffing.
“Many people delayed getting tests and treatment for medical issues because of their concerns about the pandemic," said Beaumont Health CEO John Fox said. "Now, more than a year and a half after the pandemic began, those delays in care are resulting in medical emergencies. Plus, there are many people who still need to get vaccinated. So, our staff must care for those unvaccinated individuals who become extremely ill with the COVID Delta variant, or other variants, and try to balance all the other patients coming in with medical emergencies. Add in a staffing shortage, and you have a perfect storm."
The health system said it is "working aggressively" to recruit new workers.
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Meanwhile, the health system is also experiencing a blood shortage.
Beaumont is encouraging everyone to donate blood, and to get their COVID-19 vaccinations.
“There are numerous places for people to get vaccinated. If you haven’t gotten your vaccine yet, please get one as soon as possible," said Beaumont Health Chief Nursing Officer Susan Grant. "We know the vaccine works and we know it helps save lives. If you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine, please talk with a physician or nurse.”
Patients should note that Beaumont is requiring all of its employees, including those in nonpatient-facing roles, to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by Oct. 18. There are limited exceptions for individuals with specific religious or medical reasons.
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