SAH Operational Update: Emergency Department Physician Coverage

Jun 27, 2025 at 16:38

Sault Area Hospital is sharing an important update with the community about a change to physician coverage in our Emergency Department (ED), effective July 1, 2025.

Beginning next month, the Emergency Department will be operating with reduced physician coverage per day due to changes in physician funding. 

While this change was not determined by the hospital, we are working collaboratively with the Ministry and Ontario Health to ensure the unique needs of our region are well understood. We are exploring opportunities to mitigate any impact on patients and the community.

Our Emergency Department plays a vital role in the community, particularly for individuals who do not have access to primary care or specialist services. Physicians and staff remain committed to delivering high-quality care to all who need it.

We ask for everyone’s patience as our teams prioritize the needs of each patient. Please be kind to our staff as we manage multiple demands in our Emergency Department. We appreciate the community’s support as we work through this extremely busy time.

Patients are reminded that the most urgent cases are always seen first. If you are planning a visit to the ED, we recommend bringing a list of current medications and comfort items such as a phone charger, reading material, or a water bottle to help make your wait more comfortable. Patients with non-urgent conditions will have a longer wait.

Calling an ambulance will not necessarily get you faster attention once you are at the hospital. Patients with non-urgent healthcare needs may want to consider these options: call your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or their on-call services. If they are not available, please visit a walk-in clinic – https://bit.ly/3AeWPNF

In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1 or proceed to the Emergency Department. Do not delay care. If you are unsure whether you have an emergency, seek health-related advice from a Registered Nurse by calling Health811 24/7. Call 811 or visit https://bit.ly/3NvM2Dg

Sault Area Hospital remains committed to collaborating with all partners, including the Ministry of Health, Ontario Health and providers, to support timely and safe access to emergency care for our community.

This Media Release