Over-capacity ERs are dangerous choke points. But hospital challenges go far deeper

Canadian emergency rooms are overflowing while an array of respiratory illnesses — COVID-19 included — keep circulating. And it's happening against a backdrop of behind-the-scenes backlogs that turn front-line ERs into dangerous choke points.

Over-capacity ERs are dangerous choke points. But hospital challenges go far deeper
A paramedic loads his stretcher back into the ambulance.

Canadian emergency rooms are overflowing while an array of respiratory illnesses — COVID-19 included — keep circulating. And it's happening against a backdrop of behind-the-scenes backlogs that turn front-line ERs into dangerous choke points.