Deteriorating Conditions at Surrey Memorial Hospital ER: A Call for Action

https://www.fraserhealth.ca/Service-Directory/Locations/Surrey/surrey-memorial-hospital

In recent months, the crisis in healthcare has hit home for many residents of Surrey, as doctors from Surrey Memorial Hospital (SMH) have raised serious concerns about the quality of care being provided in the emergency department. A scathing letter from the entire emergency room physician staff at SMH warns of "deteriorating conditions" that are unequivocally leading to substandard care for patients.

The letter outlines troubling statistics, including the fact that the number of patients leaving without being seen has nearly tripled since 2020, rising from 2.9% to 8.4%. Additionally, many patients now face wait times exceeding 12 hours to see a doctor, with projections that this could reach 24 hours if nothing changes. Despite a 30% increase in emergency room visits over the past four years, staffing has only increased by 8%, resulting in overwhelmed workers and longer wait times for care.

These conditions have created what the doctors describe as a "vicious cycle," where the work environment has become increasingly toxic, discouraging staff from showing up for shifts and further stressing the system. The letter notes that this situation is contributing to preventable deaths, as patients suffer from delayed care.

Frustratingly, despite repeated warnings and efforts by the doctors to propose solutions, they report receiving little response from Fraser Health or the provincial government. Although there have been promises from health officials to address staffing issues, doctors on the front lines say they have yet to see practical solutions implemented.

This alarming situation underscores the urgency of addressing the healthcare crisis, not just in Surrey but across British Columbia. As residents, we must raise our voices and demand accountability from those in charge of our healthcare system. Lives are on the line, and without meaningful change, the quality of care will continue to deteriorate.

To learn more about the situation and stay updated, check out the full report by **Simon Little** on [Global News](12).

**What can we do?**

1. **Stay informed**: Follow developments on healthcare in your community and engage with the facts.

2. **Advocate**: Reach out to local politicians, demand transparency, and call for action.

3. **Support healthcare workers**: Our doctors, nurses, and medical staff are working under extreme pressure. Public support can go a long way in encouraging change at the policy level.

Together, we can push for a healthcare system that works for everyone.