Emergency

Why You Might Wait in the Emergency Department

When you come to the Emergency Department (ED) at Listowel or Wingham Hospital, our goal is to care for you as safely and quickly as possible. We understand that waiting can be stressful — and we want you to know what’s happening behind the scenes while you wait.

1. Why Some People Go First

We don’t always see patients in the order they arrive. Our ED team uses a national system called triage to assess every patient’s condition when they arrive. This is an evidence-based system that is used by hospitals globally. This ensures that people with the most serious or life-threatening conditions are treated first.

Triage Level 1

Life-threatening emergency
Immediate care required to save life or limb.

Triage Level 2

Emergency
Very serious condition needing rapid medical attention.

Triage Level 3

Urgent
Serious concern that should be seen soon to prevent worsening.

Triage Level 4

Less urgent
Stable condition, care can safely be delayed.

Triage Level 5

Non-urgent
Minor concern, may be treated in a clinic or by a family doctor.

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Even if you’re waiting, your care is still in progress, our team is reviewing your information, monitoring results, and preparing next steps.

2. What’s Happening While You Wait

We are monitoring you and your care before the first or next step.

Doctors and nurses are reviewing test and scan results.

The team is consulting with specialists.

Beds and treatment spaces are being managed to prioritize safety.

We’re tracking your condition to make sure it’s safe to continue waiting.

If your symptoms change or worsen, please tell a staff member immediately. We’re here for you.

3. When to Come to the ED

You should come to the Emergency Department if you have:

Chest pain or trouble breathing
Sudden weakness, numbness, or confusion
Severe bleeding or injury
High fever, especially in infants or vulnerable adults
Any situation where you believe your life or health is in danger

If your issue is not urgent, there are other care options that may help faster.

4. Other Options for Care

Call 811
(Health Connect Ontario)

Speak with a registered nurse, 24/7, for free.

Unattached Care Clinic

For patients without a family doctor or nurse practitioner.

Call 519-291-4511 or email oht@hpaoht.ca

Virtual Urgent Care

Provided through London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton.

Visit UrgentCareOntario.ca or call 1-844-227-3844.

Local Pharmacies

Many offer assessments for minor ailments and prescription renewals.

We’re here for emergencies, but you have options.

5. Our Commitment to You

Our Emergency teams are highly trained, compassionate professionals.

We continuously review our processes, staff coverage, and patient flow to provide the best care possible.

If you ever have feedback about your experience, please contact us at
https://lwha.ca/patients/feedback/
or 519-291-3120 x6206.