Interior Health has confirmed a rise in patient numbers at Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (KBRH) this week, attributing the increase to seasonal respiratory viruses.
Despite the pressure, the health authority urges anyone needing medical attention to continue seeking care at the Trail-based hospital.
“Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital, like other hospitals throughout the Interior Health region, does see more patients during viral respiratory season,” a spokesperson told the Trail Times.
Interior Health noted that hospital occupancy fluctuates from week to week, and even day to day.
“While we have seen periods recently when occupancy was below capacity, we have seen increased patient volumes again this week due to the viral respiratory season.”
The health authority stressed that anyone who requires medical care should not hesitate to visit KBRH.
“KBRH and other hospitals have contingency plans when we have more patients requiring hospital admission,” the spokesperson said.
“Care teams meet daily to determine the right care needs and right location for each patient.”
Those plans may include helping patients transition back home with added home care, placing them in short-stay beds at long-term care facilities, or continuing treatment in the emergency department until an inpatient bed becomes available.
Interior Health also acknowledged the continued commitment of its medical staff.
“We appreciate the ongoing dedication of our physicians and staff, who are committed to local patients and supporting their needs,” the spokesperson said.
