THUNDER BAY — In the midst of a looming threat from the COVID-19 virus, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre finds itself in the uncommon position of having dozens of empty beds.
A hospital spokesperson said there were 50 vacant patient beds as of Wednesday afternoon.
TBRHSC has an approved funded capacity of 389 beds, but only 339 are currently occupied.
It also has 64 patients in a transitional care unit at Hogarth Riverview Manor.
Just last week, the hospital was over capacity.
The spokesperson said it's "very unusual" to have so many vacant beds.
A number of factors have led to the situation, including the hospital's efforts to assist patients to get discharged to their home environments if their condition warrants.
TBRHSC has also announced the cancellation of elective surgeries, effective Friday.
It's believed that some city residents who feel they don't absolutely require hospital care are choosing to self-isolate because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
One local health official speculated that people may also be making greater efforts to avoid situations that could lead to injury and hospitalization.
TBRHSC has implemented a number of measures to prepare for the potential arrival of patients with COVID-19.
In addition to cancelling elective surgeries, most other non-essential services, including most outpatient services, will cease on Friday at 3:30 p.m.
Patients who are impacted will be contacted directly by their doctor or by the hospital.
Rescheduling of services will be determined later, as the situation permits.
Essential services such as intensive care, stroke care, and life-and limb-saving surgeries will continue, with all other services provided according to priority needs.
