Hospitals are a busy time during the holidays and the William Osler Health System is no exception. Last year, a record 1,055 patients received emergency and urgent care at Osler hospitals (Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness, Brampton Civic Hospital and Etobicoke Hospital) on Boxing Day, Dec. 26.

A holiday surge is caused by high demand and activity due to a number of factors, according to Osler health officials. This includes: Reduced hours of operation for doctor’s offices and walk-in clinics; less availability of community resources; higher rates of health incidents caused by holiday activities; and an increase in seasonal flu cases.

All of these factors cause the community to rely more heavily on their hospital emergency departments. To help the community stay healthy and understand the health-care options that are available to them, the Osler Health System is sharing the following information:

1. On Osler’s website, www.williamoslerhs.ca, there is information about the hospital’s emergency department, urgent care centre and alternative health-care options. Click on Holiday Health Care Tips & Options.