Patients overusing Regina emergency rooms

REGINA – Regina hospitals are sending a strong message to potential patients — do not come to the emergency department unless it’s an emergency.

Health officials say too many people are showing up in Regina emergency rooms when they should be heading to a walk-in clinic or their doctor’s office.

Dr. David McCutcheon of the Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region says 15 to 20 per cent of the work done in emergency departments can be done elsewhere.