DHDTC DAL 18-02 - Emergency Department Overcrowding
DHDTC DAL 18-02 - Emergency Department Overcrowding
Dear Chief Executive Officer:
Across the state, hospitals are currently experiencing higher than normal patient volume due to the high incidence of influenza and other respiratory conditions. As a result, hospitals and their emergency departments (ED) are experiencing crowded conditions and challenges associated with managing the daily volume of patients presenting for care.
Attached to this letter is a guidance document related to managing ED and hospital inpatient overcrowding. Please review and use these strategies to proactively reduce the occurrence of overcrowding in your EDs and inpatient areas. The New York State Department of Health (Department) would also recommend the use of the resources, educational materials and information found on the Department's website at the following link: https://health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonal/.
In the event, that your hospital wishes to set up an alternative screening location to manage patient volume, please refer to the following:
Thank you for your attention to this serious public health matter. Should you have any questions, please contact my office at 518-402-1004.
Sincerely,
Ruth Leslie
Director
Division of Hospitals and Diagnostic & Treatment Centers
